LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — Tuesday marked 2023’s National Night Out, an event meant to familiarize the Las Vegas law enforcement community and the people they serve
National Night Out aims to create positive relationships between Las Vegas Metropolitan police and the communities they serve, officials say. The event, which is free and open to the public, was created in 1984 and features a variety of exhibits and activities, allowing the community to see the latest crime-fighting technology, meet policing teams to humanize police officers and educate people about crime prevention strategies.
“I think it’s cool that they come out and partner with the kids and the community to show people that they aren’t all bad,” said James Dillard, a Las Vegas resident.
Dillard grew up in southeast Las Vegas and says he’s noticed a vast difference in crime from years ago. He says he is happy to raise his son, Mijay, there.
“To me, the east side is a lot quieter than it was back when I was a kid,” he said.
The latest statistics show a decline in robberies and burglaries in the area, but Jeff Clark, Southeast Area Command Captain, says there is still much work to be done, specifically regarding stolen vehicles.
“To us, our number one priority is violent crime, but we are increasing our crime camera presence and our license plate reader presence across the valley to combat car theft,” Clark said.
Other families who attended National Night Out said they were pleased to see the effort, adding that events like National Night Out make them feel safer within their community.
“I feel like if someone calls the police, they come pretty quick, which is reassuring,” Amohshy Ojastro, a Las Vegas resident, said.
National Night Out took place at the following locations:
- Downtown Summerlin, 1980 Festival Plaza Drive from 5 to 8 p.m.
- Chaparral High School, 3850 Annie Oakley Drive from 5 to 8 p.m.
- Downtown area, corner of Fremont Street and 8th Street from 6 to 9 p.m.
- Convention Center area, 370 E. Harmon Ave. from 5 to 7 p.m.
- Robert “Bob” Price Park, 2050 Bonnie Lane from 5 to 8 p.m.
- Doolittle Park, 1950 N.J. St. from 5 to 7 p.m.
- Town Square Mall, 6605 S. Las Vegas Blvd. from 4 to 7 p.m.
The festivities also included food, vendors, games, and music.
