L’Observateur / July 15, 1998

LAPLACE – National Night Out Against Crime, coordinated through local law enforcement agencies, is set Aug. 4.Neighborhoods throughout St. Charles and St. John the Baptist parisheswill host block parties, get acquainted with their neighbors and send a message to the criminal element to keep away.

National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police/community relations and send a message to criminals that neighbors are organizing and fighting back against crime.

In order to show their support, residents are being asked to leave their front lights on at home and get outside to talk and visit with neighbors.

St. John Sheriff Wayne L. Jones said: “Take this opportunity to say hello toyour neighbor that you see, but hardly get a chance to talk to. Get to knowone another and talk about the concerns of the community, and how we can help combat the crime trend.”St. Charles Parish Sheriff Greg Champagne added: “This year’s theme is’Give Neighborhood Crime and Drugs a Going-Away Party.’ From 7 p.m. to11 p.m. on Aug. 4, homeowners, apartment dwellers and local businessesare asked to turn on their exterior lights for security and spend the evening with their neighbors and police outdoors, demonstrating solidarity against crime.”More than 27 million people are expected to participate across America.

The program is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, and co-sponsored locally by the St. Charles and St. John Sheriff’s Offices.The St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office doesn’t participate at present inNational Night Out Against Crime, Sheriff Willy Martin Jr. said. However, asimilar event is held each Halloween.

In St. Charles Parish, people planning a Night Out Against Crime blockparty should phone Lt. Dwayne LaGrange or Deputy Susie Breaux at 783-1355.

In St. John Parish, phone Lt. Wayne Norwood at 652-7058.

Return To News Stories