Wheeling Police Department Prepares for Night Out
With recent events in national news, Wheeling Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger believes events like “National Night Out” are more important than ever.
The police department, Ohio County Sheriff’s Department and Wheeling Fire Department are set to participate in the 33rd annual national community policing initiative again this year. The event will be held from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Wheeling Park skating rink.
According to Schwertfeger, National Night Out, held the first Tuesday of every August, “is an opportunity for community-police relationships and to build trust in the community.”
While anti-police sentiments don’t seem to be much of a problem in Wheeling, Schwertfeger said, “this year is really important if you’re skeptical or you want to find out for yourself and get to know us on a personal level.”
The event will offer informational booths for nonprofit organizations and other local groups to share their work with the community. Additionally, local law enforcement will have educational materials available regarding some of their programs, including internet crimes against children and drug prevention.
Along with free pizza and soda, other attractions at the event include police displays including SWAT gear, police motorcycles and vehicles, K-9 demonstrations and impaired driving simulations with tricycles.
The event is free to the public and all Wheeling residents are welcome.
“Come on out and get to know us a little better, share your concerns with us and maybe we can help alleviate that,” Schwertfeger said.
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