WASHINGTON, D.C., – DEA Washington Division staff from offices all around D.C., Maryland, and Virginia joined community organizers, neighbors, and law enforcement partners this week to participate in National Night Out events in neighborhoods across the DMV.

From Norfolk to D.C. to Baltimore and beyond, DEA’s local law enforcement and community partners hosted events with food, music, youth events, demonstrations, and exhibits, some with thousands of attendees each. During this year’s National Night Out, Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Jarod Forget and Assistant Special Agent in Charge (ASAC) Michael Rothermund toured local community events across some of the most vulnerable neighborhoods in Washington D.C. and Prince George’s County, Maryland to continue their work under Operation Engage and connect with neighbors and families.

 “Getting out in the community, speaking to our neighbors, and participating in events like this is one of the best ways we can form relationships and keep area families safe,” said SAC Forget. “Law enforcement is most effective when it has trusting and supportive relationships with the communities it serves. Events like this help us bridge that gap and get to know those we’re out here serving in a fun and enjoyable way.”

National Night Out is a community-building and violent crime prevention program that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice.

During National Night Out, community involvement in violent crime and drug prevention is generated through a variety of local events that help strengthen neighborhood spirit and unity, such as block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel, and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe.

This year, National Night Out organizers expected over 16,000 communities and millions of people from all 50 states, U.S. territories, and military bases worldwide to take part in community events. DEA offices from across the country participated, with all events taking place on the first Tuesday in August, every year.  

For more information, follow DEA Washington on Twitter @DEAWashingtonDC for location sites and details for this and other events.

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