A warm summer day, a public park, and the smell of grilled burgers—Hopkinsville Police traded uniforms for aprons at today’s Cookout with a Cop, all in the name of connection.
Officers and community members gathered at Joe Mumford Park on Woodmill Road, where the Hopkinsville Police Department hosted a casual cookout to break down barriers and build trust.
click to download audioPublic Information Officer Royale Marfil says the event is part of a broader effort to challenge stereotypes and foster conversations with young people.
Neighborhood leaders like Ardell Owens, president of the Durrett Avenue Neighborhood Association, say these efforts matter.
click to download audioOwens says community gatherings like this help change perceptions.
click to download audioTwo more opportunities to engage are already on the calendar. The department will join the Hopkinsville-Christian County Public Library for its Summer Reading Finale, grilling out again and spending the morning with families. And every Monday at 9:30 a.m., Chief Jason Newby goes live on Facebook for Chat with the Chief.
click to download audioAs summer rolls on, Marfil reminds drivers to stay alert, especially in neighborhoods.
click to download audioCookout with a Cop about serving more than just food—it offers a new kind of understanding between police and the people they serve.
