National Night Out to Raise Crime and Drug Prevention Awareness Tonight

The Manalapan Police Department, in conjunction with Target Department Store, will be hosting National Night Out, a crime and drug prevention awareness event on Tuesday, Aug. 7  from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Target parking lot within Epicentre Shopping Center on Rt. 9 South.

National Night Out is an annual event that was founded and is sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch (NATW), a non-profit organization devoted to the creation and promotion of law enforcement affiliated drug and crime prevention programs. National Night Out is in its 29th year and has involved over 37 million people from over 15,000 towns nation-wide, according to the NATW website. 

The program “is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for, and participation in, local anticrime programs, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back,” according to a press release issued by the .

All of Manalapan Township’s Emergency Service groups will be participating in this year’s National Night Out. There will also be a monster truck display, helicopter landing, inflatable rides for kids, face painting, raffles, and numerous local groups handing out information on crime prevention, the release indicated. Additionally, United Martial Arts Group, police K-9, and the fire departments will engage in repelling and extrication demonstrations.

"It's a great night for people of all ages in the community to enjoy a night out while having fun and learning about various programs serving the public,” Fountain said.

Free food and drinks will also be on site for attendees to enjoy. Ray Rossi from NJ 101.5 FM will be broadcasting live from the event and also providing entertainment.

If you are interested in contributing or participating in the event please contact Ptl. Kevin Ruditsky at the Manalapan Police Department at 732-446-4300.