Grayslake police hold 'Coffee with a Cop' event

Members of the Grayslake Police Department greeted customers and handed out free coffee Wednesday morning at a local McDonald's, all part of the "Coffee With A Cop" initiative being held across the suburbs and the nation over the next week.

The events provide residents the opportunity to sit down with their police officers, ask questions and make comments in a relaxed atmosphere.

"I think it's nice to meet with the community," Grayslake Police Chief Phil Perlini said after sharing a laugh with a couple of regulars. "(McDonald's is) helping us out, trying to get us recognized in a good way in their stores. People come in and stop and talk to us over a cup of coffee."

"I'm happy that they took the time to be here," McDonald's store manager Cecilio Rodriguez added. "It's good opportunity for customers to talk to them and say how they feel about the community."