The Modesto Police Department Crime Prevention Unit received a special recognition plaque, saluting the participation of our community in National Night Out 2016. The National Association of Town Watch ranked Modesto in first place in California in “Category 2: 100,000 – 300,000 population”. It is estimated that over 452 neighborhoods participated in the city-wide event on August 2nd.
Shortly after the August event, members of the Crime Prevention Unit submitted a report to the National Association of Town Watch. The agency reviewed submissions from agencies across the country and made the award announcements in late November. Members of the community, along with police personnel, will be recognized at a City Council meeting on Tuesday, January 24th at 5:30 p.m. We encourage anyone who participated to attend.
In response to the award announcement, Modesto’s Chief of Police Galen Carroll said, “The citizens of Modesto have once again proven that taking pride and ownership of their neighborhoods is a top priority. It is a great honor to receive first place again this year and we look forward to working together with the community to continue our fight on crime.”
Several significant donors provided money and services to make the event possible including ADT, Modesto Irrigation District, Gallo, DOT Foods, McDonalds, Pepsi, 7up Bottling Company, Black Oak Casino, Glacier Ice and Modesto Bee. Many smaller donors also contributed to ensure this event was a success.
National Night Out is designed to:
- Heighten crime and drug prevention awareness
- Generate support for local anti-crime programs such as Neighborhood Watch
- Strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships
- Send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back
