Author: Kirsten Barber
On August 7, when law enforcement officers across the state joined their local communities for National Night Out events, NCDPS officers were there, as well. This annual community-building initiative connects law enforcement across all 50 states with the neighborhoods they serve in to help promote healthy relationships between the police community and the public.
What began as an agreement of people in a single neighborhood to turn on their porch lights in a show of solidarity transformed into a national event. Now in its 36th year, National Night Out has brought together over 38 million neighbors across 16 thousand communities through block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and other activities. During events, law enforcement will set up information booths, exhibits, run safety demonstrations, share information on youth programs, and hold on-site meet-and-greet sessions with service animals.
Every year, NCDPS law enforcement officials join their communities in a variety of these National Night Out events. Some of the events this year included:
• Probation parole officers joining in neighborhood cookouts
• State troopers ‘recruiting’ future troopers
• Probation parole officers handing out school supplies with Phi Beta Sigma at NCCU
• Corrections Officers showing off their K9 partners and explaining contraband
• Probation parole officers handing out school supplies and talking with kids about their jobs
• State troopers talking with neighbors about MADD
• Probation parole officers and troopers teaming up with local law enforcement and fire departments to talk about all aspects of public safety
Participants over the years have stated that connecting with law enforcement during National Night Out opens the door for productive discussions on crime prevention and safety, all while paving the way for positive relationships.
“Our troopers, corrections officers, probation parole officers, capitol police officers and SBI agents are involved in the communities in which they live and work,” said Public Safety Secretary Erik Hooks. “We want residents to know we are a part of their community. Public Safety is our priority and we want people to come to us when they need help.”
National Night Out takes place on the first Tuesday in August. This year, 159 North Carolina cities registered as participating communities.
Check out pictures of NCDPS employees at National Night Out