Diamond Bar Takes Stand Against Crime

Safety was in the spotlight all week in Diamond Bar and all the communities served by Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, as the city marked the 29^th annual National Night Out on Wednesday.

Most celebrations were held Aug. 7. But since the entire week is officially devoted to the National Night Out’s goal, Diamond Bar held its event in conjunction with the Wednesday night Concert in the Park and Movies Under the Stars series at Sycamore Canyon Park.

Among those goals is a show of unity between communities, so that the criminal element knows residents work together to protect against crime, National Night Out officials said.

“And, of course, a big part is of it is to reach out to the community and encourage them for their support of law enforcement,” said Capt. David Halm with the Diamond Bar/Walnut Sheriff’s Station.

Sheriff’s and fire representatives from Los Angeles County showed off patrol cars and fire apparatus. The sheriff’s also featured the RV often used as a command post during major incidents.

The captain and several of his deputies and volunteers attended the event handing out educational materials.

Fire officials took the opportunity to hand out materials on safety, especially given the earthquakes and heat wave that have recently hit the area.

Los Angeles County Fire Department Assistant Chief Dave Stone said fire crews and law enforcement work hand-in-hand in the field. Taking part together was common sense.

“We find that we have a lot in common,” Stone said. His department was also looking for volunteers for various programs, including the Community Emergency Response Teams.

Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, the event is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support and encourage participation in local anti-crime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnership.

This year an estimated 15,500 communities took part, officials said.