Coffee with a Cop: FMPD’s Cup Runneth Over

December 11, 2013

“Coffee with a Cop: FMPD’s Cup Runneth Over” 

On Wednesday, December 11, 2013 the Fort Myers Police Department came together with members of the public to share coffee and comments as part of an initiative to strengthen our community partnerships. The event dubbed, Coffee with a Cop, was the first in Southwest Florida and received rave reviews from all that attended. Today’s first meeting was held in the Downtown River District. “I’d like to thank Downtown Bagel & Deli for hosting our event, it was casual and fun,” said Captain Jim Mulligan. “We are planning on future events and we are looking for sponsors.” 

Coffee with a Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Fort Myers’ 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 citizens may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street. Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allows for relaxed, one-on-one interaction.

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 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.

If local businesses within the City of Fort Myers would like to sponsor Coffee with a Cop please contact Captain Jim Mulligan at (239) 321-7774.