THEY might be tough on crime, but police are setting the record straight on how they can help those in trouble.
Capalaba Police Beat’s Senior Constable Sam Schofield said anyone worried about their own or others’ safety could visit police for advice.
She and administration officer Pauline Dunn will be at Birkdale Fair Shopping Centre’s Bean Street Cafe to help share the message.
The two, along with Volunteers in Policing members and Crime Stoppers personnel, will be at the cafe for a morning tea between 9.30am and 11.30m on Friday, November 17.
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The event, which is open to all, will be hosted in the lead-up to White Ribbon day – a national campaign to stop violence against women.
Ms Dunn, who helped establish the “Coffee with a Cop” program three years ago at Capalaba Police Beat, said meeting police for an informal catch-up was a great way to build rapport.
She said many people became nervous when dealing with police during stressful times.
“One of the keys to coffee with a cop’s success is that it removes physical barriers between police and community members, allowing relaxed, informal, one-on-one interactions in a friendly atmosphere,” she said.
Ms Dunn said better relations also meant more people were likely to help police solve crime, providing vital witness clues.
Another Coffee with a Cop is also planned for Dunwich at North Stradbroke Island next month.
Crime Prevention Coordinator Chris Hebblethwaite said people could sign-up to have a free security assessment of their home or business.
The Dunwich morning tea is on between 9.30am and 11.30am on Friday, December 1 at Skips First Stop Cafe at 5 Ballow Road.
