Full Notification

On Wednesday, November 20, 2013, between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, South Los Angeles Station/Lawndale Service Center will host "Coffee with a Cop" at McDonald's restaurant, 15606 Hawthorne Boulevard, Lawndale, 90260, (310) 676-4425.

Deputies from the Lawndale Service Center and community members will come together in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships, and drink coffee. All community members are invited to attend.

"Coffee with a Cop" provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department's work in Lawndale's neighborhoods.

The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations. 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 relaxed one-on-one interaction.

"We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our deputies," said Lieutenant John Hocking. "These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships."

"Coffee with a Cop" is a national initiative supported by The United States Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services. Similar events are being held across the country as local police departments strive to make lasting connections with the communities they serve.

The program aims to advance the practice of community policing through improving relationships between police officers and community members one cup of coffee at a time.