Affton Precinct Officers To Be on the Move for St. Louis County Night Out

The St. Louis County Police Department has scheduled a “St. Louis County Night Out Against Crime” next Tuesday (Oct. 2) for residents to join with local police officers in support of crime and drug prevention programs in their neighborhoods. The department also believes the "Night Out" events can strengthen the communication between police and the citizens they serve.

In St. Louis County's Affton Precinct, officers will be out and about all evening on Oct. 2, visiting the various block parties that have been scheduled in various Affton area neighborhoods, according to Neighborhood Policing Officer David Sebek.

"There have been several block parties scheduled," Sebek said. "It's a chance to get to know your neighbors and the police officers from the precinct."

Sebek said the officers will visit all of the block parties, if possible, during the "Night Out" event. To let the precinct know about a block party in your neighborhood, contact Sebek at 314-638-5550.

The St. Louis County Night Out event is part of the larger, National Night Out observance, which typically has been held in August. In St. Louis County, however, re-scheduling the event to October is expected to increase participation in the program since the weather will be cooler.

National Night Out is designed to: heighten crime and drug prevention awareness; generate support for, and participation in, local anti-crime programs; strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and send a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

The St. Louis Area Police Chief’s Association (SLAPCA) designated Oct. 2 as the date allow citizens across the St. Louis area to join  in support of crime and drug prevention programs during a time of year that is more comfortable. This event has additionally been designed to generate participation in anti-crime efforts and strengthen the communication between police and the citizens they serve.

Neighborhood policing officers in each of the seven county police precincts, along with officers assigned to contracting municipalities, will be participating in neighborhood block meetings, park parties and walks throughout the St. Louis County area. Officers will be speaking to residents on specific areas of crime prevention tailored to their individual areas, as well as general topics, such as child safety, elderly abuse, firearm safety and back to school tips.

"The event serves as a visible reminder to would-be criminals that law abiding citizens and police are united in their efforts to reduce crime," said Chief Tim Fitch. "Like Neighborhood Watch, this event presents a great opportunity for all neighbors to introduce themselves to each other and to the men and women who serve and protect them."