Santa Cruz Police Invite Residents To 'National Night Out'

SANTA CRUZ, CA — Thousands of law enforcement agencies across the nation are taking part in the annual National Night Out on Tuesday to promote police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie.

" ... it provides a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances," the National Night Out website reads.

In Santa Cruz, there will be an opportunity to participate. The Santa Cruz Police Department is celebrating Tuesday's event with a free community Open House at police headquarters, 155 Center Street.

From 4-7 p.m., community members can take tours; meet chiefs and officers; learn about policing; see a K-9 demonstration; hop into police vehicles; see crime scene investigation interactive activity; try on equipment; watch a motorcycle skills demonstration; and more.

The family friendly event even features free cotton candy courtesy of the Santa Cruz Police Officers Association.

“We are very pleased to open the doors of our facility and family to the community," said Santa Cruz Police Chief Andrew Mills. "We want everyone to get an up close and personal look at how our Department serves their city. We’re extremely grateful to our residents for supporting the Department and allowing us to provide community-oriented policing in Santa Cruz.”

Free parking for the event is being provided at Depot Parking Lot, 107 Center Street; bike valet is available at police headquarters.

For more information or questions about SCPD Open House event for National Night Out, call (831) 420-5844 or email jblaschke@cityofsantacruz.com.