TPD, first responders connect with community at National Night Out

Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.
Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.

The annual initiative known as National Night Out strives to foster stronger connections between law enforcement and citizens within the community. To commemorate this year's occasion, the Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, from 6-9 p.m.

Since its inception in 1984, National Night Out has witnessed tremendous growth, with participation expanding from 2.5 million Americans in 400 communities across 23 states to over 30 million people in excess of 10,000 communities spanning all 50 states.

Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.
Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.

In collaboration with the Tallahassee Fire Department, Leon County Sheriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Emergency Medical Services, Animal Control, City of Tallahassee Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Affairs, TPD Advisory Councils, and Mission BBQ, this year's local event in Cascades Park catered to families.

"This is an event we look forward to every year. National Night Out is a great opportunity for residents to get to know the first responders serving their communities. It is also a chance for residents to get to know each other because I know we are stronger together," said Chief Lawrence Revell. "This event will be a great way to build connections with one another and have fun while doing it."

Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.
Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.
  • National Night Out is a positive community event that:

  • Heightens crime and drug prevention awareness.

  • Generates support for and participation in local anti-crime programs.

  • Strengthens neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships.

  • Sends a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.
The Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.

TPD's Community Relations Unit, Community Oriented Policing and Problem Solving Squad (COPPS), and Motor Unit were on-site to share home and business security tips and provide more information on services available to help protect you and your property.

Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.
Tallahassee Police Department hosted a free community event for National Night Out at Cascades Park on Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2023.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Tallahassee Police connect with community at National Night Out