Bridging the gap between community and law enforcement, the Hawaii Police Department's South Hilo Community Policing Section is hosting another installment of its "Coffee with a Cop" event. Scheduled for Thursday, December 19, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., this informal meet-and-greet will be held at Big Island Coffee Roasters at 76 Kalanianaole Street in Hilo, providing residents with the chance to freely engage with local officers over a cup of joe. As reported by the Hawai‘i Police Department, there are no scheduled agendas, allowing for organic discussions ranging from personal anecdotes to pressing community concerns.
Representing a casual setting unfamiliar to some wearing the badge, these "Coffee with a Cop" engagements have gained reputation for fostering a more accessible and open dialogue. Notably, they create an opportunity for citizens to voice their concerns directly, to ask questions, and to get to know the officers patrolling their neighborhoods.
The Hawaii Police Department hopes these events provide a relaxed backdrop for beneficial exchanges, something they've been keen on promoting. Anyone with questions regarding the event is encouraged to reach out to the South Hilo Community Policing section at (808) 961-8849.
