There are a few new faces among local police but with staff members looking to remain in Tenterfield for the foreseeable future they’re keen for the station to reestablish a strong connection with the community.
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To that end, they’ve nominated themselves to host a Coffee with a Cop morning tea at Corner Life & Style Cafe on Tuesday, May 8 from 10am, and the coffee’s on them.
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The get-together’s being touted as an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships and drink coffee. There will be an opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the police work in their neighbourhoods.
“The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies, or emotional situations,” organiser Senior Constable Ben Tatton said.
“Those situations are not always the most effective times for relationship-building with the community, and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street.”
“Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.”
Superintendent Scott Tanner said he hoped community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know the officers.
“These interactions are the foundations of community partnerships,” he said.
With the current roll call of local officers all a chatty bunch, as many as possible are hoping to attend the coffee morning along with local district inspector Matthew Hemsworth.
Snr Cst Tatton said the crew would be there until at least 11am. For those who can’t make the morning tea he said the officers are always open to being approached if you see them out and about, unless of course they’re occupied with urgent matters.
Coffee with a Cop is a national initiative that originally came out of the US Department of Justice. Armidale Police hosted one last year but this is the first time the meet-and-greet has been offered in Tenterfield.
