Harlingen police invite public to join officers

HARLINGEN — On Friday, the community will get a chance to know their local police force a little better.

The Harlingen Police Department invites the community to come together in a neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships and drink coffee.

Coffee with a Cop aims to provide an opportunity to community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in the neighborhood.

“We hope that community members will feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know our officers,” police said.

The majority of contacts the law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations.

Those situations are not always the most effective times for bonding with the community and some community members may feel that officers are unapproachable on the street.

Friday’s meeting is expected to break down these barriers.

“These interactions are the foundation of community partnerships,” police said.