SWAMPSCOTT — The Police Department welcomed residents to join them at Starbucks for a conversation over a cup of coffee this past Saturday.
The department hosted the event at the Starbucks location at 450 Paradise Road from 2 to 4 p.m., with the aim of strengthening relations between residents and law-enforcement officers.
The event has been a holiday staple for the department for at least 10 years, Sgt. Candace Doyle said. When she first joined the detectives unit, she faced initial setbacks trying to drum up internal interest in continuing the program.
Doyle said the program is nationwide, allowing servicemen and women to come together with residents and speak directly one-on-one, outside of any kind of crisis situation.
Officer John Hogan helped work with the local Starbucks to promote the chance for residents to sit down with officers in a friendly environment.
“About thirty or forty customers interacted with me, asking questions and having great conversations,” Hogan said.
“It was a great experience for the police and the community to interact as the holiday season continues,” Officer Kevin Reen said. “This was successful for everyone involved, and this is something the Department would love to continue with Starbucks, or any other business willing to participate.”
