Last Thursday, the Lubbock Police Department traded patrol cars for paper cups and made a splash at the Starbucks on Mac Davis Lane across from Texas Tech. Folks poured in for Coffee with a Cop, a national program designed to open doors—and dialogue—between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
What is Coffee With a Cop?
Coffee with a Cop gives residents the chance to sit down one-on-one with officers—over a hot cup of joe—to ask questions, voice concerns, or simply put a friendly face to the badge. The casual format breaks down barriers and sparks real conversations that are both meaningful and memorable.
Although specific origins of the program couldn’t be pinpointed for Lubbock, Coffee with a Cop began nationwide through the U.S. Department of Justice in 2011, aiming to replace fear and mistrust with connection and trust-building conversations. Hundreds of communities across the U.S. host these meet-and-greets regularly.
At Lubbock’s Starbucks, community members of all ages stopped by to:
- Ask officers questions—ranging from what they do daily to bigger concerns facing the city.
- Share stories about Lubbock neighborhoods and progress they’d love to see.
- Forge stronger community bonds in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
The event served as a reminder that good policing isn’t just about responding—it’s about listening.
What You Need to Know About Coffee with a Cop
Coffee with a Cop is a program designed to build trust and communication between police officers and the citizens they serve. There are no speeches or formal presentations—just free coffee and relaxed conversations in a local coffee shop.
The initiative invites community members to discuss topics like policing philosophy, neighborhood safety, and departmental priorities. With no set agenda, the events are simply an open invitation for residents to bring their questions, share concerns, or stop by to say hello!…