Conversation percolated between police and the public June 14 during Coffee with a Cop at the Dartmouth Starbucks.

The event allowed the public to meet local law enforcement from both Dartmouth and State police departments over free coffee and pastries.

Dartmouth police officers visit the shop frequently, store manager Nicole Lopes noted. 

“They’re very special,’’ she said. “They treat us with respect — they’re warm and wonderful.’’

In talking with one of her regulars, Dartmouth Police Officer Cristina Brum, Lopes learned more about Coffee with a Cop and decided to host one on the Starbucks patio.

The coffee chain prides itself on community outreach, she said, adding that “I love, love, love that’’ about Starbucks.

Another aspect about the event, Lopes said, is that it allows people to “see they’re approachable.”

State Trooper Jessie Barbosa, a community liason for Troop D of the Massachusetts State Police, also appreciates the connectivity, adding that Coffee with a Cop events help “bridge the gap’’ between police and the public.

“We get more time with the community,’’ she said, “to talk to them and see what they have to say.’’

The trooper added that she appreciates “that one-on-one time, to get to speak with’’ the public.  

UMass Dartmouth student Victoria Santos said the officers she met were “nice people.’’ She said she appreciated meeting them and stepping away from her school routine for a bit.

Grabbing a cup of coffee provided “a nice break from college work,’’ she said. “It will jumpstart the homework.’’

For Lopes, the interaction helps build community. 

“We can accomplish so much more when we work together,’’ she said.