KING CITY — Law enforcement agencies across South Monterey County participated in the National Night Out on Aug. 2, part of a nationwide effort to get communities in touch with the officers who serve them.
Local police and fire departments hosted community booths and offered entertainment and free food at area venues.
King City held its event between and around the police and fire department buildings, with dozens of booths inside the fire station. An estimated 500 community members were in attendance.
“Historically, police departments have been very closed, but times have changed and agencies recognize that community engagement will reap rewards,” said King City Police Chief Keith Boyd. “One of the biggest challenges in policing with individuals is they’re uncomfortable with the cops. But if you create a comfortable environment for them to come and understand that the police department and fire department are places they can come to be safe, then it opens those doors.”
A California Highway Patrol helicopter landing was planned for King City, but Boyd said an emergency in Big Sur caused the landing to be canceled.
National Night Out also offered a chance for residents to talk with officers, asking whatever they most wanted to find out from police. Topics brought up ranged from officer backgrounds to how someone could become an officer.
All the South Monterey County departments hosted activities for children and awarded prizes, such as bike helmets, school supplies and even bikes and scooters.
Planning for National Night Out typically starts months before the event, but next in the lineup for area agencies is planning autumn and winter events, with each department having different plans.
Next year’s National Night Out will be united in timing, typically the first Tuesday in August.
- Sgt. John Dow sits on the edge of the dunk tank seat as one of the eight police personnel who entered the dunk tank in King City. (Sean Roney)
- Crowds gather inside the King City Fire Department to visit the many booths of community groups and organizations. (Sean Roney)
- Izzy Silva of King City Fire Department serves hot dogs. (Sean Roney)
- Aaliyah Santiago looks at the kittens up for adoption at the South County Animal Rescue booth in King City. (Sean Roney)
- Christine Guettler (left) and Patty Reese of First Baptist Church prepare servings of free popcorn in King City. (Sean Roney)
- Ethan Chavez (right) dunks Officer Janelle Sanchez at the King City event. (Sean Roney)