Bronxites fight back against crime at National Night Out

Bronxites fight back against crime at National Night Out

Thousands of residents from throughout the Bronx gathered to convey one simple message to would-be criminals looking to prey on their communities:  “Stay out.”

The showing of unity between residents and the Bronx was part of the 25th anniversary celebration of National Night Out on Tuesday, August 5; taking place at every precinct in the borough.

“When the children, the community and the police play together, work together, help each other and exchange information, we can create better neighborhoods, better cities and a better country for the future generations,” said Borough President Adolfo Carrion, Jr., as he made his way from one precinct to the next, explaining the meaning of the day. 

Proud residents from the Norwood community filled the street to show their support and thanks for a police presence that continues to work toward preserving their quality of life.

 “This is a symbol of how we take our streets back from people who don’t treat them the right way,” 52nd Precinct captain Philip Rivera said, referencing the portion of Mosholu Parkway that was closed between Hull and Bainbridge avenues for the celebration.

Across town, on the Great Lawn of Pelham Parkway North, hundreds of families also gathered to thank the 49th Precinct and stand up for a crime-free borough.

Thrilled to see the overly populated park, 49th Precinct Community Council president said, “You bring people together and now you have a united front against crime.”

He further commented that it was refreshing to see the joy and laughter the evening generated from people of all walks of life.

“If we’re going to maintain our quality of life it means people from every corner have to be part of that fight,” he said. “We have that here tonight.”

Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera agreed. “It’s all about the kids being able to see that its okay to be with our men in blue in a safe and fun environment.”

Scheduled uniformly across the country, NNO is a unique crime prevention event designed to create police-community partnerships.

“People know what’s going on in their community but the friendship and trust isn’t always there,” Thompson said, explaining an unjustified mistrust that often creates a rift between law enforcement and the neighborhood it serves. “Trust equals information and solutions to problems.”

Encouraging such connections to begin at an early age, the 49th Precinct Explorers were on hand to sign interested members of the youth to take part in the program. 

“We’re trying to raise awareness about how law enforcement helps protect people from violence and crime,” 49th Precinct Explorer Jeremy Liker explained.

Angie Teran, the coordinator for the 45th Precinct Explorers, echoed the sentiment. 

“The Explorers program at the 45th Precinct is an opportunity for young people to learn hands on from police officers in the field,” Teran said during the 45th Precinct’s celebration in Co-op City, noting that it was one of many programs residents could sign up for during and after National Night Out. 

Pleased to see such successful interaction between police and youth, Senator Ruben Diaz, Sr., who donated inflatable rides to four National Night Out events in the borough, said. “As long as we continue the good relationship with police and the community, we will win.”