Latrobe police schedule 2 more community outreach events

The success of Latrobe Police Department’s inaugural meet-and-greet session in early February prompted two follow-up community outreach dates in the weeks ahead.

On Feb. 28, children attending Latrobe Elementary School will have the opportunity to “Lunch with a Cop,” when city officers will share a meal with the school’s 680-some students during mid-day lunch periods.

Officers will “sit and talk and have fun with the kids,” said Police Chief John Sleasman. “It’s going to be a total of 2 1/2, maybe 3, hours.”

Targeting a broader citizenry on a weekend, the department also is planning “Coffee and Cocoa with a Cop” from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. March 14 at the McDonald’s restaurant at 2014 Lincoln Ave., Latrobe.

Sleasman said the programs are meant to build trust with the community by providing an informal atmosphere where residents of all ages can get to know local officers.

He noted the initial Feb. 5 “Coffee and Cocoa with a Cop” attracted more than 50 people during a two-hour, open house-style morning session at the Latrobe Art Center. Among those stopping by were kids ages 3-5 who attend the Latrobe Kinder-Schull child care center and some adult clients of the Hempfield branch of the ACHIEVA organization, which serves people with disabilities.

Coffee was provided by the art center, while cocoa and cookies were donated by others including Jody Jellison of Senior Life.

“It really was a fantastic time,” Sleasman said of the event during his report Monday to city council. “It was very well-received. I totally enjoyed it.”

“I think it’s really great community engagement,” Mayor Rosie Wolford told Sleasman.”I think it’s really great for the kids and the community to see you in a different setting, much more relaxed. So, if there is a problem, especially with the kids, they’ll feel more comfortable approaching you.”