Taking some time to mingle with the community, Riverbank Police Services hosted another Coffee with the Cops at Palo Santo Café. With several guests stopping by the café and the deputies armed with beverages, it made it a very social and positive community engagement this past Wednesday morning.

Community Service Officer Ana Davalos said, “It was a great turnout and very steady the whole time.”

There were a few Deputies at the event including Deputy Xiong, and Motor Deputy Maldonado along with Chief Ed Ridenour and Riverbank Mayor Richard O’Brien. They spent about an hour at the café to meet and greet members of the public.

“(It) went great,” stated Ridenour about the recent social hour. “We had several people show up and speak with us, even one family came from Ceres just to see us. Everyone was very supportive of us. A few more people attended than ones prior. I think the more we have the more interest it will draw.”

The Chief shared that he spoke with about 10 people and discussed several different topics like illegally parked vehicles, speeding traffic, the growth of Riverbank, and other casual conversations.

This is the third event this year and according to the Chief there are plans to have “coffee with the cops” throughout the year. The focus of the event is to engage with the community and for guests to ask the deputies questions or just get to know the people protecting and serving the city.

When the Chief was asked about a highlight from the event he said, “Just being able to interact with the community and build relationships.”

Palo Santo Café is located at 6333 Oakdale Road next to Grand Asia in the O’Brien’s Shopping Center. They have a variety of beverages including specialty coffees, teas, and some food options as well as a gelato bar.