The Starbucks in Crossroads was well protected as several Riverbank Police Services deputies were on hand on Tuesday morning, May 10 for a coffee and chat with the community. This was the first “Coffee with a Cop” that could possibly be a regular occurrence that RPS brings to the community.

Sgt. Howard, Community Resource Deputy Xiong, Community Service Officer Caballero, and Motor Deputy Maldonado were all in attendance at the Starbucks with coffee or tea in hand to socialize with the community.

“I think today’s “Coffee with a Cop” event was a good time and a great partnership with one of our many community partners, Starbucks,” said Howard. “I think anytime our deputies can get out and speak with members of the community it is a good time.”

The visit began at 8 a.m. on Tuesday morning and lasted about an hour. The drive-thru was busy as cars drove through and foot traffic was bustling as well. The deputies were outside and there were several salutations as people came in and out.

“I was excited to meet a young gentleman today, who decided to show up to the event just to ask questions of the deputies in attendance to get to know them on a more personal level,” stated Howard. “He was interested in their different assignments and was shown one of the Motor Officers motorcycles.”

This event was open to anyone that wanted to stop by and ask the deputies any questions or just to meet the people protecting and serving the city and have some familiarity with them.

Howard noted that they plan to have this event more frequently at varying locations. They will post their future events on their social media page.

He said, “I also encourage as you see these deputies grabbing a cup of coffee or grabbing a bite to eat say hi and introduce yourself. They love interacting with the community.”

During the time the deputies were at Starbucks, several patrons greeted them with pleasantries and the good vibes filled the morning air along with the aroma of the freshly brewed coffee.