The York County Sheriff's Office is eager to engage with communities across York County for National Night Out on August 6. The goal of the event is to strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the residents they serve.
Lieutenant David Godfrey and his deputies at the York County Sheriff’s Department look forward to this event each year.
“So, in York County this year, we are going to 11 different events throughout the county. Basically, local police departments, jurisdictions, they have their own individual national nights out and we get invited to the events. So that's how we are attending 11 events this evening, “said Lt. Godfrey.
This event bridges the gap between local law enforcement, other agencies, and the community. It’s an opportunity to earn local trust, while having a great time with the community.
“Well, it's a good time, basically. It's a time for law enforcement to let loose a little bit. These events have turned into more of like a party type setting. Tons of them have. They have music, various entertainment, and bounce houses for kids. You have face painters. There are bikes that are given out to the community, TVs, free food, I mean, all kinds of things like that. We have all of our canines going to different events. So, it's your chance to meet the canines, interact with law enforcement, ask us any questions that you've always wanted to ask and just have a real, you know, 1 to 1 on a level playing field with each other, “said Lt. Godfrey.
Lt. Godfrey has been with the York County Sheriff's Office for over 20 years. Since he’s been involved, he’s seen positive impact come out of National Night Out.
“All the time, not just opening up the barriers with the public, but the impact that you, as a law enforcement officer has on a member of the public that it really is lasting. I've had so many people come up to me and talk to me that they met me and my K9 ten years ago, and they remember meeting him ten years ago that one time, and it left such an impact. So, things like that, they're just awesome to hear stories like that. And I think it's very vital, “said Lt. Godfrey.
Here is a list of the known sites and times: