Manteca Police — in conjunction with Manteca firefighters and city staff — are hoping the community steps up its efforts to build safer and more connected neighborhoods by staging informal parties on Tuesday, Aug. 5
It is part of the annual National Night Out evening.
The department is encouraging neighborhoods to hold informal gatherings in front yards to share food and fun while getting to know their neighbors better.
There have been numerous instances in past years where an alert neighbor that connected with other neighbors during the annual event have deterred crime and even helped police catch criminals in the act.
“National Night Out is one of our most important community events,” noted Manteca Police Chief Stephan Schluer. “It’s a great opportunity for our officers to build relationships with the people we serve in a relaxed, positive setting.”
“Over the years, it’s proven to be incredibly effective in strengthening trust, encouraging dialogue, and showing that public safety is truly a shared effort between law enforcement and the community.”
The National Night Out organization indicates the neighborhood events are designed to:
*heighten crime and drug prevention awareness.
*generate support for — and participation in —local crime fighting efforts.
*strengthen neighborhood relationships and community partnerships with the police.
•send a message to criminals to let them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.
Police say the key to National Night Out is getting to know your neighbors.
Those who organize BBQs and gatherings on Aug. 5 and register them with the city will have visits from various public safety groups.
That includes the Manteca Police canine unit, SWAT, gang unit, mounted patrol, motorcycles, chaplains, Seniors Helping Area Residents and Police, and patrol officers along with firefighters and City Council members.
If you would like such visits register your neighborhood event, go to the Manteca Police Facebook page.
For questions, call Manteca Recreation at 209-456-8600 or email recreation@manteca.gov.
