Coffee with a Cop is a powerful initiative that aims to break down the barriers between police officers and the communities they serve. By creating opportunities for open dialogue and personal interaction, these events foster a sense of trust and understanding that is crucial for effective community policing. Cops surprise customers using the drive-thru by handing them their orders.
The purpose of Coffee with a Cop is to remove agendas and allow the public to ask questions, voice concerns, and get to know the officers in their local area. This approach has proven to be a resounding success, as it enables citizens to see the human side of the badge and officers to understand more of the needs and perspectives of the people they protect.
The origins of Coffee with a Cop can be traced back to 2011 when officers from the Hawthorne Police Department in California sought to find new ways to engage with the community they served. This national campaign has since spread to communities across the country, with police departments recognizing the value of building relationships and fostering open communication.
As evidenced by the experiences shared by Officer Kelton Glorfield, these events provide an invaluable opportunity for officers to connect with the people in communities, particularly the younger generation. The excitement and respect shown by children towards the men and women in blue is a testament to the positive impact of initiatives like Coffee with a Cop.
I had the pleasure of speaking to Officer Kelton Glorfield at the event on July 9, and he shared that the idea of building relationships within the communities he serves daily is crucial to bridging the gap between the officer and the citizen.
Officer Glorfield moved to the Cumberland County area due to serving in the military and decided to make this home. He’s worked with the Hope Mills Police Department for eight years and enjoys participating in community events so he gets to know the people he serves.
I shared my story of being a child who honored and respected cops. I fondly remember every time I saw a cop, I’d smile and wave. I wondered if children still had the utmost respect for cops and if cops still got that same experience from kids. Officer Glorfield confirmed that he gets to enjoy the excitement children feel when they attend some of the many events the department holds, such as bike rodeos, Walk with a Cop, and when kids come to the parking lot of the precinct to receive snacks and drinks and shake a cop’s hand.
By continuing to host these events and prioritize community engagement, police departments can work to bridge the gap between officers and citizens, ultimately strengthening the bonds that hold communities together.
Officer Glorfield mentioned that they accept donations to continue purchasing small gifts for kids and provide free events to the public. To see all events held by the Hope Mills Police Department or how you can donate, visit their website at https://townofhopemills.com/179/Police-Department or Facebook page under “Hope Mills Police.”

(Photo: An officer with the Hope Mills Police Department serves coffee during a monthly Cofee with a Cop event. Photo courtesy of the Hope Mills Police Department)