National Night Out to Support Crime Fighting

Police want residents to send a message to criminals: “Communities are banding together to fight crime.”

So on Tuesday, Aug. 7, Howard County Police are asking residents to turn on their front lights and spend an hour outside on their porches and lawns.

It’s all part of National Night Out, a yearly event in which police encourage neighborhoods to show support for law enforcement.

In Columbia, Harper's Choice will be celebrating with the Unity Reggae Band and food from 6 to 9 p.m. at the square in the Harper's Choice Village Center.

“Community participation is essential in fighting crime,” Howard County Police Chief William McMahon said in a statement. “National Night out may last for only one evening, put the partnership between Howard County residents and our officers is an ongoing effort.” 

More than 30 neighborhood events are planned throughout Howard County for Tuesday evening, including: 

• Harper's Choice music and food on the square in Harper's Choice Village Center, 5440 Old Tucker Row 6 - 9 p.m.
• Centennial one-mile fun run, 10114 Colonial Drive, 7:15 – 8:15 p.m.

Police and auxiliary officers will be visiting block parties, bringing along K9 units, a SWAT vehicle and other resources to share with the community.

The kick-off event will be at the North Laurel Community center where McGruff the Crime Dog,  the police helicopter and the new mounted unit join residents for a free concert, refreshments, a skate park demo and giveaways.

Visit the Howard County Police Department website for a full list of events throughout the county.