Community members were welcome to enjoy Coffee with a Cop from 10 a.m. to noon yesterday at Penny’s Kitchen.
“This is a chance to meet with local clergy and law enforcement, all working together to make citizens feel safe in the area,” Michigan State Police (MSP) Sault Ste. Post Commander Rob Allen said. “A lot of times, agencies appear to work separately when we all work together. It is important for people to see that. We want people to show up. We are here for them.”
Michigan State Police (MSP) Public Information Officer Mark Giannunzio set up Monday morning’s event to enhance community relations. Allen took it from there, pulling local agencies together to mingle with the public.
Chippewa County Sheriff Mike Bitnar and Sault Ste. Marie Police Chief Wesley Bierling were happy to join in, as was MSP Trooper Dan Browne. Retired MSP Trooper Carl Stutzner, owner of the restaurant, also took a seat.
In no time at all, multiple area pastors from various denominations walked through the door to sit down and chat.
Michigan State Representative candidate for the 107th district, Neil Friske, drove two hours just to take part in yesterday's national event.
Many community oriented conversations were had over coffee at Penny's Kitchen.
