It’s imporntat for students, faculty and University police to be able to have a conversation. The University Police Department (UPD) is inviting all students and faculty to share a warm and inviting cup of tea or coffee at the Charlie Brown Cafe on Wednesday, March 6 in hopes to bring the UPD, faculty and students together.

Chief of Police David Dougherty tries to regularly host “Coffee with the chief”.  Dougherty became the chief of police in 2018 after serving as interim chief since 2016. Prior to being the chief of police, Dougherty has served with Sonoma State University Police for 13 years. Dougherty wants to bridge the gap between students and the police force.

“I’d like the event to emphasize that the UPD is a great resource for our community and our team is approachable, knowledgeable, and dedicated to serving our community” Dougherty said. 

The event is designed to bring students and on-campus law enforcement together in a relaxing environment and to engage in conversation without any tension. 

“We do not bring a prepared agenda. The event is a great opportunity for students, faculty, and staff to simply talk to law enforcement professionals.” Dougherty said. “In many instances, people never receive an opportunity to talk to police officers in a casual, non-enforcement type setting.”

Senior at Sonoma State University, Joshua Alegria,  thinks that the event could be helpful.

“I think the event could hold a lot of potential and couldn’t do any harm.” Algeria said.

The UPD has made an effort in the past to make sure students are more informed on the safety on campus by coming to Greek Life meetings and sending out Clery Act emails concerning anything from sexual assaults to thefts. Chief Dougherty hopes students  get “Coffee, tea, our UPD Twitter username, and an opportunity to ask questions while engaging UPD in great conversation,” out of the event.

Transfer student Hannah Brandon thinks that the event is a good idea for students to get to know the police officers. 

“They are looking out for people and not trying to do any harm.” Brandon said.

If any students, faculty, or staff are interested in a conversation with the University Police officers, be sure to head over to this event. It will be held Wednesday, March 6, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. at Charlie Brown’s Coffee on the first floor at the library.