McGruff the Crime Dog and Walmart Brought Halloween Safety to Indianapolis

Families across Indianapolis had the chance to carve pumpkins alongside police officers and meet a beloved crime-fighting canine last Saturday when Walmart partnered with McGruff the Crime DogⓇ and the Indianapolis Metro Police Department for a special Halloween safety event.

The “Carve with a Cop” gathering, held October 18 at the Walmart on North Keystone Avenue, offered a free, family-friendly way to celebrate October Crime Prevention Month while learning essential safety tips for the upcoming trick-or-treat season. The event brought together two important themes: building positive relationships between law enforcement and the community, and ensuring children stay safe during Halloween festivities.

Attendees participated in hands-on pumpkin carving activities guided by uniformed officers from the Indianapolis Metro Police Department's North District. The event also featured face painting and pumpkin painting and carving stations, giving families multiple ways to get into the Halloween spirit while connecting with local law enforcement in a relaxed, festive atmosphere.

The star of the show was McGruff the Crime Dog, the iconic mascot who has been teaching crime prevention to American families for decades. Children and families met McGruff in person and snapped photos with the famous character, who is visiting cities nationwide as part of Crime Prevention Month initiatives.

Crime Prevention Month is observed each October to mobilize communities across the country around the principle of stopping crime before it happens. This year's programming emphasizes practical, accessible solutions that help neighborhoods respond to emerging safety threats. McGruff's multi-city tour brings free safety resources directly to families, making crime prevention education engaging and memorable for children.

The collaboration between Walmart, McGruff, and local law enforcement reflected a broader commitment to community safety and engagement. Walmart has long prioritized supporting the communities it serves through partnerships with local law enforcement and safety initiatives that bring families and first responders together in positive settings.

The timing couldn't have been better, as families prepared for one of the busiest nights of the year for children being out in their neighborhoods after dark. The event provided an opportunity for parents to ask questions and gather tips on everything from costume visibility to neighborhood safety protocols.