Walpole Residents Invited to Have ‘Coffee With A Cop’ Wednesday

Editor’s note: The following is from the Walpole Police Department.

One of the big issues police must continually deal with is communication.

We all know the contacts police have with the public are most often in emergency, sometimes adversarial and/or emotional situations. Let's face it, those situations are not always the best time for open communication and often lead to misunderstandings.

Remember the old adage, "Speak when you are angry and you'll make the best speech you'll ever regret." This happens at times despite our best efforts. So how do we create opportunities where the community and the police can communicate openly and in a comfortable atmosphere? We believe one of the ways is to just sit down together over a cup of coffee, just like you would with a friend.

Come meet your police officers at the Country Kitchen Coffee Shop on Wednesday from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. and grab a cup coffee, make yourself comfortable and let's all talk and listen together.

We'll find a way to build a better community through open communication and mutual trust, through good old-fashioned conversation. The conversation will be friendly, fun and focused on addressing your concerns.

We understand everyone has busy schedules so you're welcome to stay for the duration or come and go for a quick question or comment on any topic of concern. Come with an open mind, a smile and a handshake, but be prepared for candid dialog and real issues.