The Newton Police Department will be hosting its second annual National Night Out next Monday, Sept. 29, as a form of outreach to promote police community partnerships.
The nationwide campaign, which began in 1984, aims to enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community.
Chief McKenzie Patrick said that he sees the event as a great way to reach out and interact with the community.
“We’re trying to get the community out, not only the youth, but also the adults, to come out and get a chance to look at the equipment of several of the local and regional agencies,” said Patrick. “It’s a great way for them to see the things that we work with, the legality of the things that we do, and how we operate.”
Patrick said that there will be food trucks on site, and he’s reached out to several agencies to come and take part in the event, including Mississippi Wildlife, Game, and Fish, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Newton Fire Department, Newton County Sheriff’s Department, and more.
“The sheriff department is going to bring their SWAT truck and some gear, the helicopter is going to be back, a fire truck will be there, a couple of track hoes and backhoes,” Patrick said. “Kids will be able to come out and touch some trucks, see what different departments do, and how they operate.
National Night Out will take place from 5-7 p.m. at the empty lot between Third and Fourth Street in Downtown Newton.
