Party with neighbors, fight crime

National Night Out

Residents across the parish have begun to plan their National Night Out Against Crime parties, which take place on Tuesday, Aug. 3, and attempt to bring neighbors together to heighten crime and drug-prevention awareness.

Last year, 23 residents hosted National Night Out parties in St. Charles Parish, and the St. Charles  Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking those interested in hosting parties this year to register with the office. Anyone can sign up to host a party by contacting Susie Gauthier at 985-783-1355.

That same number may also be called to find out the nearest party to your home.

On Aug. 3, homeowners, apartment dwellers and businesses are asked to lock their doors from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., turn on their outside lights for security and spend the evening with their neighbors demonstrating solidarity against crime.

Patrolling deputies will be on hand to visit registered parties or events with crime-prevention pamphlets. The deputies will also answer any questions residents may have. During the visits, children will also be given a first-hand look at the inside of a police cruiser.

Gauthier, of the Sheriff’s Office, said the main goal is to get people to meet their neighbors. She said some people can live in a neighborhood for years, but never get the chance to come together with nearby residents.

“If you know your neighbor, you’re more likely to look out for them and call them or the Sheriff’s Office if anything looks suspicious,” she said.

Because deputies visit the registered parties, Gauthier said it’s also a great time for residents to meet local law-enforcement officials.

“A lot of people don’t get the chance to visit with deputies, and this way they can meet them and become comfortable with representatives of the Sheriff’s Office,” she said.

This will be the 27th year the event will be held. National Night Out Against Crime is designed to heighten crime and drug-prevention awareness, generate support and participation in local anti-crime efforts and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community relations.

The local event is sponsered by Sheriff Greg Champagne in conjunction with the Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities hope that National Night Out sends a message to criminals by letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.