Despite dark skies and heavy rain, the spirit of National Night Out Against Crime was alive and well in parts of Brooklyn on Tuesday.
While some precincts were forced to cancel their celebrations, others still drew crowds to the annual event, part of a nationwide campaign to foster positive relationships between law enforcement and the neighborhoods they serve.
In Coney Island, the 60th Precinct carried on with its usual block party, featuring face-painting for kids, live entertainment and cultural performances, free food and more. While the event mostly weathered the storm, some activities were also moved indoors as they night went on.
Guests included Assembly Member Alex Brook-Krasny, Congress Member Hakeem Jeffries, state Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton and District Attorney Eric Gonzalez, among other elected officials and community leaders.
Not too far away in Bay Ridge, officers from the 68th Precinct adapted to the weather by putting up tents outside of their 65th Street station-house.
Despite the rain, National Night Out was in full swing!
Officers spent the evening engaging with the community, building relationships, and fostering trust. Together, we had a great night of collaboration and unity for safer neighborhoods. pic.twitter.com/D4uyGUS3g5
— NYPD 68th Precinct (@NYPD68Pct) August 7, 2024
At Underhill Park in Clinton Hill, officers from the 88th Precinct met with community members under tents.
National Night Out was an amazing success. Thank you for all who helped and participated
We truly appreciate everyone. pic.twitter.com/l1BmfuVdH0— NYPD 88th Precinct (@NYPD88Pct) August 7, 2024
NYPD Chief of Personnel John Benoit attended the 88th Precinct’s event, and said the annual coming-together of communities is what it’s all about.
“National Night Out is an opportunity for us to strengthen the relationship between the NYPD and the community,” he posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, Tuesday night.
In Bedford-Stuyvesant, community members headed to Gates Avenue, despite cloudy skies, to meet with members of the 81st Precinct.
It was great to meet and interact with the community at the 81st Precinct's National Night Out event. Thankful for everyone showing up with the promise to work together to build a safer community. #NNO2024 pic.twitter.com/CRTLjfDWpP
— NYPD 81st Precinct (@NYPD81Pct) August 7, 2024
National Night Out Against Crime was started in 1984 by the National Association of Town Watch. Held each year on the first Tuesday of August, the event often features block parties, cookouts and police demonstrations as a means to promote crime prevention and strengthen neighborhood bonds.
