COFFEE WITH A COP 
: Western District – Burger Point, 479 S. Mount Vernon Avenue; Northern District – Shandin Hills Golf Club, 3380 Little Mountain Drive; Eastern District – Hannah’s Restaurant, 1355 E. Highland Avenue; Southern District – Studio D, Chase Bank Building, 330 N. D Street, 5th Floor #SBPD#Police#CoffeeWithACop#SanBernardino#SanBernardinoPolice#Community
San Bernardino – San Bernardino’s Police Department (SBPD) recently launched a “Coffee with a Cop” program, aiming to foster positive relationships between officers and residents. However, the initiative has sparked mixed reactions on social media, highlighting a deep rift between the police and some community members.
The program invites residents to meet officers in casual settings at various coffee shops and restaurants across the city. The SBPD hopes this informal interaction will build trust and understanding.
However, some residents remain skeptical. Aloysius Jensen commented on the department’s Facebook post, questioning the sincerity of “cops who routinely violate the Constitution.” Paul Padilla shared a negative personal experience with the SBPD, alleging excessive force used by officers. These comments reflect a broader tension between the police and certain segments of the San Bernardino community. While the “Coffee with a Cop” program signifies an effort towards better relations, it seems some residents are hesitant to participate until they see a significant change in police conduct.
Chris Correll, 67, a resident of San Bernardino, weighed in on the situation. “The SBPD’s outreach efforts are commendable,” he said. “However, building trust takes time and consistent action. Open dialogue and addressing past grievances are crucial steps towards a more positive relationship between the police and the community they serve.”
Only time will tell if the “Coffee with a Cop” program can bridge the gap between the SBPD and some community members. While some residents remain wary, others might be open to this opportunity for dialogue. Ultimately, the success of this initiative may hinge on the police department’s ability to listen to concerns and demonstrate a genuine commitment to serving the community fairly.
