Law enforcement, child safety at the forefront

National Night Out celebrates 31 years

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This year marked the 31st annual National Night Out, an event observed across the United States that aims to promote crime prevention programs like neighborhood watch groups, law enforcement agencies, state and regional crime prevention associations, businesses, civic groups, and individuals devoted to safer communities.

The event was celebrated here in East Meadow, at Veteran’s Memorial Park, on East Meadow and Prospect avenues on Aug. 5, and sponsored by Presiding Officer Norma Gonsalves of the Nassau County Legislature.

On a local scale, the night’s mission is to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support and participation for local anticrime efforts; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

This year’s program was geared towards child safety. The event featured the Nassau County Police Department Young Explorer Program, R.E.A.C.H. (Return Every Adult & Child Home) Program, as well as information on Megan’s Law, child I.D. kits, and a demonstration by the Nassau County Arson Robot.

“To be able to host an event such as National Night Out and promote safety and drug prevention is incredibly beneficial to the community,” said Gonsalves. “We had a great turnout and I look forward to hosting this event again for years to come.”