Palm Bay Police Chief Mark Renkens and members of the department’s patrol and neighborhood policing units will host “Coffee with a Cop” on Feb. 20 from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the McDonald’s located at 1179 Malabar Road in Palm Bay. (Coffee With A Cop Facebook image)
BREVARD COUNTY • PALM BAY, FLORIDA – Palm Bay Police Chief Mark Renkens and members of the department’s patrol and neighborhood policing units will host “Coffee with a Cop” on Feb. 20 from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the McDonald’s located at 1179 Malabar Road in Palm Bay.
Mark Renkens
The program offers the community an opportunity to meet local police in an informal, neutral space to discuss community issues, build relationships and drink coffee.
“Coffee with a Cop” provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Palm Bay’s neighborhoods. The public is invited to attend and there is no cost.
The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies, or emotional situations.
Hilda Benedith
“We that community members will come to this event and feel comfortable to ask questions, bring concerns, or simply get to know the officers,” said Officer Hilda Benedith.
“These positive interactions are the foundation of community partnerships and go a long way in improving the overall safety and security of our city.”
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 a relaxed, one-on-one interaction.
For more information contact Officer Melissa Rogers at 321-952-3463 or by email at npu@palmbayflorida.org.
ABOVE MAP: Palm Bay Police Chief Mark Renkens and members of the department’s patrol and neighborhood policing units will host “Coffee with a Cop” on Feb. 20 from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at the McDonald’s located at 1179 Malabar Road in Palm Bay.
