August 5th will mark the City of Forest Grove Police Department’s first formal participation in National Night Out.  The theme for this year’s National Night Out is “Giving Crime and Drugs a Going Away Party.” 

The Forest Grove Police Department is committed to continually seeking ways to strengthen the bond between the police and the community.  National Night Out offers an excellent opportunity for officers and citizens to interact in a positive manner.  This year’s participation is aimed at reinforcing the concept of National Night Out, and growing it into an annual celebration of community policing and crime prevention.

The Forest Grove Police Department will be hosting a “block party” from 5PM to 7PM in the parking lot located between the police station and the fire station in located at the 1900 block of Ash St..  Forest Grove Fire and Rescue will be assisting with the event.  All citizens are encouraged to attend.  Free barbequed hot dogs and snacks will be served by the police.  There will be treats for kids, face painting, balloon animals, prizes for adults and an abundance of crime prevention information.  Police vehicles will be parked at the location for viewing, along with the recently furnished police mobile command trailer, which was entirely funded through drug forfeiture money.

National Night Out is designed to: Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness;  Generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime efforts; Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police community relationships; and Send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

During the evening of August 5th, residents throughout Forest Grove and across the nation are asked to lock their doors, turn on an outside lights and spend and evening outside with neighbors and police.

Anyone requesting additional information about the event is encouraged to call the Forest Grove Police Department at 503-992-3260.