Ormond Beach to celebrate National Night Out against crime and drugs

ORMOND BEACH -- On Tuesday, neighborhoods throughout Ormond Beach are being invited to join forces with thousands of others in communities nationwide for the “Annual National Night Out” crime and drug abuse prevention event.

National Night Out, sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch and co-sponsored locally by the Ormond Beach Police Department, the Ormond Beach Police Athletic League, and the Department of Leisure Services, will involve over 9,800 communities from all 50 states, U.S. territories, Canadian cities and military bases around the world.

"National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness," Ormond Beach police spokesdman Lt. Kenny Hayes said, "generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime efforts. Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

From 6 to 9 p.m., residents in neighborhoods throughout the City of Ormond Beach area are asked to lock their doors, turn on outside lights and spend the evening outside with neighbors, law enforcement and community partners at the North Nova Community Center, 440 North Nova Road, Ormond Beach. There will be hamburgers, hot dogs, drinks and chips.

The event includes face painting, balloons, a dunk booth, games, door prizes, and police and other emergency vehicles from many local agencies. More than 50 sponsors from the community are participating in this local anti-crime program.  

Hayes added, "Support for and participating in local anticrime programs sends a message to criminals: Let them know that Ormond Beach neighborhoods are organized and keeping crime out."

For more information, please call Officer Lloyd Cornelius, community outreach division, crime prevention, Ormond Beach PD, 386-676-3526.