Last week, Good Strangers was filled with men and women in blue as well as local residents chatting, taking selfies, and enjoying a cup of joe.
More than 30 community members, including District 2 Councilman Mitch Drummond and city staff, attended the latest edition of “Coffee with a Cop,” which was held from 8:30 to 10 a.m.
Wednesday, May 10 at Good Strangers, 114 W. 2nd Street.
“We like the opportunity to engage with the community,” said Police Chief Henry Fluck of the yearsold event. “We like to hear from them, and sometimes, they have really good questions for us … I have heard about a few issues in neighborhoods, and I will share it with our officers.”
At the informal meetup, Fluck and other police officers shared information about “Hide, Lock and Take,” a vehicle crime prevention program.
“Like every city, we have what I like to call our crimes of opportunity,” said Commander Joseph Branson. “And this is our initiative to kind of combat that.”
Branson said Taylor PD is trying to educate the public about not being an easy target.
“What we are telling people is hide your things inside the vehicle,” Branson said.
“If there is something you have to leave in there, make sure it is out of view. Lock your car up when you are not with it, and take your keys with you. Don’t leave your keys in your car.”
“A lot of times, criminals will come by, and they will just check the locks on the car,” Branson added. “And if it’s locked up, chances are they are going to keep moving to an easier target. They don’t want to make a lot of noise. They will move onto somebody else’s car.”
At the event, attendees enjoyed a free cup of drip coffee, compliments of Good Strangers, which has served as host to the event in years past.
“We are appreciative of Good Strangers Coffee’s supportive efforts to host ‘Coffee with a Cop,’” Fluck said. Branson said these events take place quarterly and are a good opportunity to get to know the men and women who serve in law enforcement.
“Look for our next ‘Coffee with a Cop’ soon,” Branson said.
“We will have it posted on social media.”
For more information, please call 512-352-5551, or check in at www.facebook. com/cityoftaylortexas.
