National Night Out Connects Police, Residents

Officers from the and other law enforcement agencies split into groups and visited block parties around Madison on Tuesday as part of National Night Out, a program designed to "promote community spirit and police-community partnerships."

"It's just a great night for the people to get to know the police face to face," coordinator Lt. Jerry Mantone said.

Mary Jane Hart, "block captain" for the West End Avenue block party, said the event is a great way for residents to meet police and their neighbors. Their road was blocked off with cones and dozens of neighbors and friends enjoyed a barbecue.

An Emergency Services Unit truck from the New Jersey Transit Police Department, one of the agencies that participated in Madison's Night Out, visited the party and officers gave tours of the vehicle.

Borough Council President Jeannie Tsukamoto visited eight different neighborhoods with her team of officers.

"The National Night Out program not only heightens public safety awareness and strengthens communications between the police and residents, it also promotes neighborhood spirit and helps to build a stronger community," she said. "It gave me the opportunity to learn about safety and other concerns around town. I appreciate the work of Lt. Mantone, our police department and all the participating agencies to make this a great success."