Video: 20th Annual Night Out on Crime Held in Columbus

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COLUMBUS, Miss. – (WCBI) 20 years of crime prevention. The National Night Out on Crime event returned to Columbus.

Four locations throughout the city hosted the block parties. Free food, entertainment and school supplies were provided to residents, courtesy of the Columbus Police Department and the Columbus Lowndes Recreational Authority.

The mission of Tuesday night’s annual event is to create stronger bonds between community members of the officers who serve them. They also are working to heighten awareness on drug and crime prevention, and send a strong message to criminals. “you aren’t welcomed here.”

“Get out. Meet your police officers tonight. Know them by name and why come by your house, stop and ask them if they want a cup of coffee or whatever and talk and let them get to know your surroundings,” Columbus Officer Rhonda Sanders.

Locations included Townsend, Sandfield, and Simscott Community Centers, and East Columbus High School Gyms.