Officers from the Juneau Police Department hung out at Sacred Grounds Wednesday afternoon for Coffee with a Cop, a chance for people to talk to them in a relaxed environment.
“It’s just to reconnect with the community, see what’s going on,” said Sgt. Brian Dallas. “All politics get put aside, it’s a way for our community to talk to us face to face.”
Juneau Police Department Officer Rosie Ostman and Sgt. Brian Dallas talk with Juneau residents at Sacred Grounds on Oct. 2, 2019, National Coffee with a Cop Day. The annual event promotes positive interactions with community members and law enforcement agencies. (Michael S. Lockett | Juneau Empire)
Officers talked with patrons of Sacred Grounds and played with children, talking with Juneau residents about anything on their minds.
“It could be how drugs are impacting their neighborhood or thefts going on or car riflings or traffic,” Dallas said. “There is no agenda. Whatever is your concern, let’s talk about it.”
Lt. Krag Campbell with the Juneau Police Department talks with Richard Peterson, president of the Central Council of Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, during Coffee with a Cop at Sacred Grounds on Oct. 2, 2019. (Michael S. Lockett | Juneau Empire)
The annual event is held in different locations each year, Dallas said. Officers volunteered off-duty time to come and listen to any concerns Juneauites wanted to air. Dallas said that many officers volunteer time coaching or visiting schools to stay in touch with the moods and humors of the community that they’re part of.
“I think naturally, most of us are pretty family oriented. I think we share that and bond with the community,” Dallas said. “My kids are growing up in this community. I grew up in this community. It’s an opportunity to give back.”
• Contact reporter Michael S. Lockett at 757-621-1197 or mlockett@juneauempire.com.
