Murrieta Plans Eventful 'National Night Out'

MURRIETA, CA — Murrieta area law enforcement personnel will take a break from busting bad guys tonight to get to know the people they serve, giving residents a personalized feel for policing, during National Night Out.

The city of Murrieta has scheduled a big Night Out celebration at Town Square Park, Kalmia Street and Jefferson Avenue, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Officials said attendees this year can look forward to a K9 demo, SWAT unit displays, tours of a mobile command post and kids' activities. Among those slated to be at the event are the Devilicious Food Truck, Epic Eats and a live DJ.

Police also said on Facebook that the following vendors will be at the Murrieta event:

US Bank, Pacific Dental, Masonic Lodge, Rose Again Foundation, SDCCU, SAFE, Tara Sampson Voice Studio, Faith Bible College (with ICE CREAM!!!), San Joaquin Valley College-Temecula,Hospice of the Valleys, Murrieta Fire & Rescue,CHP – Temecula, REACH Air Medical Services, US Army, Temecula Valley Womens Club, Temecula Valley Pride, Jolly Jump, Tact-med, Empowerment center, Child Abuse Prevention, AT&T andMichelle's Place Cancer Resource Center

In nearby Menifee, a Night Out celebration is scheduled from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Audie Murphy Sports Park, 30376 Lone Pine Drive.

Various other events are planned to mark the anniversary of "America's National Night Out Against Crime," spearheaded by the nonprofit National Association of Town Watch, which organized the first outing in 1984.

Night Out events began with simple gestures, such as residents keeping their porch lights on from dusk to dawn in a demonstration of neighborhood unity and crime-fighting spirit.

Since that time, the National Night Out concept has expanded to include the implementation of voluntary watch programs and face-to-face meetings to improve relations and communication between law enforcement and community members.

— City News Service contributed to this report