GOLDSBORO, NC – The Goldsboro Police Department is continuing to strengthen relationships with residents through community outreach programs designed to build trust, encourage communication and promote safer neighborhoods across the city.
During a recent interview on WGBR, Mayor Charles Gaylor joined Sergeant Samuel Langley of the Goldsboro Police Department to discuss the department’s growing emphasis on community engagement beyond traditional law enforcement duties.
Gaylor said many residents only interact with police officers during traffic stops or emergency situations, but much of the department’s work focuses on prevention, relationship-building and problem-solving within the community.
“That’s what our community policing division does,” Gaylor said. “They engage people and get them involved in being part of the solution.”
Sergeant Langley, who served 10 years in the United States Air Force before joining the department in 2017, said officers are working to create positive and approachable relationships with the public.
“We want people to run to us, not away from us,” Langley said.
Among the department’s recent outreach efforts was the “Skate With a Cop” event held at Roundabout Skating Rink, where officers and families gathered in a relaxed environment designed to foster conversation and connection.
The department is also preparing for its upcoming “Coffee With a Cop” event scheduled for Friday, May 22, at Lane Tree Golf Club. Residents are encouraged to stop by for coffee, ask questions, share concerns and get to know local officers in an informal setting.
Langley said youth engagement remains another major priority for the department, particularly through School Resource Officers who serve as mentors and role models for students throughout the community.
Gaylor praised the department’s leadership and hiring efforts, saying city officials have worked intentionally to recruit officers who value professionalism, service and community relationships.
“We absolutely have the resources to enforce the law,” Gaylor said. “But the goal is to not have to do that.”
Both leaders emphasized that creating safer neighborhoods requires cooperation between residents and law enforcement, along with active community involvement in reporting concerns and supporting positive change.
The Goldsboro Police Department plans to continue hosting community outreach events throughout the year as part of its ongoing commitment to community policing and engagement.
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