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On the first Tuesday of August each year the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office joins forces with thousands of communities nationwide in a celebration against crime and drugs called "National Night Out"!

The History of NATW & “National Night Out”

The National Association of Town Watch (NATW) is a nonprofit, crime prevention organization which works in cooperation with thousands of crime watch groups and law enforcement agencies throughout the country. Since 1981, NATW has been dedicated to the development, growth and maintenance of organized crime and drug prevention programs nationwide. NATW’s network has grown to include over 6,500 crime, drug and violence prevention organizations.

National Night Out, ‘America’s Night out against Crime,’ was introduced by the Association in 1984. The program was the brainchild of NATW Executive Director Matt A. Peskin.

In an effort to heighten awareness and strengthen participation in local anticrime efforts, Peskin felt that a high-profile, high-impact type of crime prevention event was needed nationally. At that time, he noted that in a typical ‘crime watch community’, only 5 to 7% of the residents were participating actively. Due to the growth and success of these programs, he felt this percentage was too low. Subsequently, he proposed a national program which would be coordinated by local crime prevention agencies and organizations - but that would involve entire communities at one time. The first National Night Out was introduced early in 1984 - with the event culminating on the first Tuesday in August.

Events
There are many different types of NNO events -- it all depends on the neighborhood.  Some residents host block parties.  Sometimes events are built around a barbecue, ice cream social or potluck dinner.  Other residents like to plan their events in nearby parks and advertise in the newspaper ahead of time.  Some simply gather in their yards and socialize while their children play.  Any gathering that gives neighbors a chance to step outside their homes and talk fits the bill!

National Night Out involves over 9,000 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world. In all, over 30 million people each year participate in 'America's Night Out Against Crime'.

Contact Us
If you decide to plan a NNO event, contact the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office at (606) 638-4368. Let us know that you're interested in being a part of National Night Out. We would like to assist you any way we can and get an idea of how many events will be taking place.
 

More information Contact the Sheriff's Office 606-638-4368