Ever wanted to talk to a police officer in a one–on–one conversation? State troopers from the Calumet Post gave community members that chance earlier today, and ABC 10’s Keweenaw Bureau Reporter Sam Ali was there with the story.

Michigan State Police troopers at the Calumet Post hosted the annual Coffee With A Cop event today at Slim’s Cafe in Mohawk. Along with officers from the Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Department, members of the community had an opportunity to speak with those who serve and protect.

“Any questions are open, and they can talk to us about anything they want to,” First Lt. James Danison said. “We’re not here to give any speeches. We’re just here to talk about our services that we provide and any community issues that they want to talk about.”

Danison says many people have taken advantage of this opportunity because it removes the tension that may develop between police and civilians.

“Everything has been positive that we’ve seen here today,” he said. “A lot of people are in here asking questions that they don’t want to ask out on the road. It’s hard to approach a police officer in uniform when you ask these types of questions. Everything’s been great. We’ve a lot of success here today and a lot of good people to talk to.”

He adds that the event breaks down barriers and allows for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction over a cup of coffee.