Introduction

Over the past few years, the relationship between police officers and businesses, particularly Starbucks, has become a contentious issue. This article delves into the viewpoint of a 34-year veteran law enforcement officer regarding the decision made by Starbucks baristas to ask police officers to leave when customers felt unsafe. Additionally, it explores the broader implications of such actions and the reactions from the public and notable businesses.

Starbucks' Corporate Policies and Customer Safety

A tantamount 34-year veteran law enforcement officer, who has extensive experience and knowledge in diverse facets of law enforcement, shares their perspective on the Starbucks incident. The article highlights how Starbucks has a clear corporate policy against police presence in their stores, to the extent that a veteran officer like myself would avoid patronizing the chain. Instead, I, and many others, can opt for alternative caffeine sources such as 7-Eleven or local grocery stores where there is no restriction on police presence.

The Antics of Modern Activism

The recent trend of anti-corporate outcry, often referred to as "get woke go broke," has been exemplified by the reactions to Starbucks. Despite the well-intentioned aims of reducing bias and improving customer safety, such measures can sometimes have unintended negative consequences. For instance, it was noted that inviting police officers into the establishments could help deter crimes and maintain order, especially in areas plagued by gang problems. This article discusses the benefits and drawbacks of such decisions from a business standpoint and explores the broader implications for corporate policies.

A Business Perspective: Price vs. Safety

From a financial standpoint, the article delves into the cost of coffee at Starbucks and compares it to alternatives. It notes that while some of these ideas may be innovative, the focus on expelling employees, reprimanding managers, and providing more training does not address the core issue: the pricing of coffee being too high. The humorous element of the holiday cups and promotional campaigns is acknowledged, but the core issue remains the price disparity.

Personal Reflection and Recommendation

In my personal opinion, the decision to ask police officers to leave was misguided. If Starbucks truly aims to foster a safe and inclusive environment, all customers, including police officers, should be equally welcome. The underlying issue of customer discomfort should have been addressed differently, such as by clearing out the police or ensuring they are out of sight if needed.

Conclusion

In summary, this article provides a balanced perspective on the Starbucks incident from a seasoned law enforcement officer. It highlights the importance of ensuring safety while maintaining inclusivity and addresses the broader implications of corporate policies on small business operations.