Groups of neighbors gathered in small groups in every corner of Natchitoches Parish Tuesday, October 3rd for National Night out. Officers from the Natchitoches Police Department joined Sheriff’s deputies in discussing crime prevention tips with citizens over soft drinks and snacks.

The National Night Out Event held in the Martin Luther King Community Center featured the NSU men’s and women’s basketball teams as well as the NSU track and field team. The athletes were joined by McGruff the Crime Dog and church praise dance teams.

The purpose of the National Night Out is to reduce crime by providing a place for neighbors to get to know each other and the law enforcement members who protect the community.