On Monday, Feb. 13, the Columbia Police Department (CPD) introduced a new community partnership by hosting their first Cops and Barber Shops Breakfast at EdVenture Children’s Museum.
Local barber shop owners and workers were invited by CPD officers in their region to attend a meet and greet breakfast with staff. Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin kicked off the program with a greeting that included praise for CPD’s 2016 accomplishment as Law Enforcement Agency of the Year. Police Chief Skip Holbrook and Deputy Chief Melron Kelly facilitated the discussion with over 25 cops and barbers in attendance. Chief Holbrook shared his insight and emphasized the significant role that barbers have in the community.
“The City of Columbia Police Department has embarked on a journey that ensures our officers are dedicated to Community Policing and Crime Reduction,” Chief Holbrook stated. “As part of our 21st Century Policing Initiative, community partnerships allow staff an opportunity to receive feedback and engage with citizens.”
Throughout the nation, law enforcement, community leaders and policing experts have come together to discuss best practices in strengthening police-community relationships. In doing so, the Columbia Police Department has created additional programs to enhance our community connection by establishing a Community Advisory Council, increasing neighborhood outreach programs and providing citizen survey cards to include residents in the decision-making processes.
“I learned how to be a man when I went to the barbershop as a kid,” stated Deputy Chief Kelly. “Our goal for this type of event is to continue working with the community to strategize on ways to reduce crime.”
The Cops and Barber Shops Breakfast is slated to take place quarterly with plans to expand the program and include beauty shops.
For more information about the Columbia Police Department, please visit www.ColumbiaPD.net.