The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey announced on Aug. 5 that it will participate in National Night Out events alongside law enforcement partners, community leaders, and residents in multiple cities across the state.
According to the announcement, representatives from the office will join gatherings in Jersey City, Newark, Westfield, Scotch Plains, Verona, Cedar Grove, Fairview, Rahway, South Orange, Mansfield, Trenton, Haddon Township, Mount Olive, Salem and Wall. The initiative aims to foster relationships between law enforcement and local communities.
“National Night Out reminds us that the foundation of effective public safety strategies are the partnerships between neighbors, law enforcement, and the community coming together. Safe communities are built through relationships, respect, and neighbors looking out for one another. We honor law enforcement who courageously serve on the front lines of public safety and welcome the opportunity to work alongside our communities to prevent crime, support victims, and help neighborhoods thrive throughout New Jersey,” U.S. Attorney Robert Frazer said.
National Night Out is an annual campaign designed to promote partnerships and camaraderie between police officers and residents with a goal of making neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions participate nationwide each year on the first Tuesday in August by attending block parties or other community events organized by local police departments.
The program was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance at the U.S. Department of Justice and is administered by the National Association of Town Watch. Events include cookouts, parades, safety demonstrations and youth activities aimed at uniting neighbors under positive circumstances.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey advances community safety through law enforcement coordination and crime prevention programs; it prosecutes federal crimes as well as represents civil interests across New Jersey. It staffs about 170 attorneys and support personnel with offices located in Newark, Trenton and Camden; its alumni include federal judges and U.S. senators; it operates as part of the Department of Justice, according to its official website.