Daytona Beach International Airport to host Coffee with a Cop

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) will host a special event celebrating National Coffee with a Cop Day in collaboration with the Volusia Sheriff’s Office (VSO) on Wednesday, October 4, between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. at the airport's art gallery, situated on the second floor before security.

This gathering offers passengers and community members a chance to engage in meaningful conversations over coffee, fostering a unique opportunity to connect and inquire about the VSO’s efforts at the airport and within the broader community.

“The majority of contacts law enforcement has with the public happen during emergencies or emotional situations, which are not always the most effective times for relationship building with the community. Events like Coffee with a Cop breaks down barriers and allow for a relaxed, one-on-one interaction," said Sheriff Mike Chitwood, emphasizing the importance of such interactions.

Daytona Beach International Airport collaborates closely with VSO to ensure law enforcement services at the county-managed airport, maintaining 24-hour coverage with a K9 team. The airport houses four K9 teams in total. In 2022, the Airport and VSO jointly launched the innovative K9s and K9s program, which includes plush toy dogs resembling the K9 officers.

“The K9s and K9s program was initiated to enable VSO deputies to engage with the traveling public in a fun and friendly manner. Deputies can offer these plush toys to passengers or others at the airport, promoting positive interactions and potentially reducing intimidation associated with law enforcement presence," said Joanne Magley, director of the airport’s Air Service, Marketing & Customer Experience division.

Coffee with a Cop is a nationwide initiative supported by the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services. Local law enforcement departments hold similar events nationwide to connect with their communities.