Brawley PD hosts Coffee with a Cop
BRAWLEY — The around the clock responsibilities of the police department rarely affords them a chance to acquaint themselves with residents, which is why they are glad to resume the coffee with a cop series.
It is always a great opportunity to convene with the public and the police appreciate all the people who showed up at Starbucks on Tuesday, remarked Kelly Brown interim police chief.
“We certainly hope to host more events like this,” said Brown. “Today puts into perspective our relationship with the community and how we can provide a better quality of life.”
It was a neat event to familiarize residents with their officers, chief and commanders noted Mayor Sam Couchman. “This is a nice, relaxed social setting to meet and greet, we don’t expect to discuss issues of significance here,” said Couchman. “We had a lot of little kids introduced and it’s a good comfortable setting for them to get acquainted.”
Yet, the important aspect to remember is that community relations is a nonstop process that did not start, nor does it end, today pointed out Cmdr. Brett Houser. The police department already has a great relationship with the community and they host a forum such as this for the opportunity to field an array of questions and concerns.
“Mostly people want assurance that their community is safe,” said Houser. “They want to be informed of potential developing criminal trend. We have not experienced any significant increase in crime, but with school starting up again, we need to be aware of increased traffic, more pedestrians and young drivers.”
Still, the police department is particularly proud of its school resource officers and the entire force who work hard to forge partnerships with businesses and residential neighbors in and around schools. “Our end goal is ensure safety and that’s the point of this event. Today helps facilitate that ongoing relationship.”
Accompanying her children, Casie Blackstone, wife of Sgt. Jonathan Blackstone, called it an awesome event. “I like the way the community gets involved to offer their support to the police department. The children are enjoying it too. They’re big fans of the police department.” Added Sgt. Blackstone, “It’s just nice to get together and interact with the community on a more intimate level and get to know our neighbors better.”
Officers Luis Sanchez and Ana Amaya echoed the feeling the event enhanced community relations. “It’s good to see so many community members and they had such good questions, they’re grateful for the police department’s service,” said Amaya.
Receiving the city of Brawley alert on Monday, residents Janet and Ed Otter made it a point to stop by. “They’re real people with a tough job to do,” said Ed. “I’m not sure everybody is aware of what a great police department we have. They’re very professional.” Added Janet, “It’s great to see the officers in a more relaxed atmosphere today and we look forward to the upcoming cultural season and cooler weather.”