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AHOSKIE – The Ahoskie Police Department and the Hertford County Sheriff’s Office are taking part in the annual National Night Out and are encouraging the public to join them.

National Night Out, an annual coming-together of law enforcement, first responders, and the communities they serve and protect, at the local level will be held from 6-9 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 3 at the Ahoskie Creek Amphitheater.

Held on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out is – according to its national website – a community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make neighborhoods safer and more caring places to live.

Organizers of the event in Ahoskie said the goal was to enhance the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, to have provided a great opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances.

“This event gives law enforcement officers an opportunity to build positive relationships and a sense of community by bringing police and citizens together for a night of fellowship,” said Ahoskie Police Chief Jimmy Asbell.

“This is a perfect way for the public and the law enforcement officers to spend time together, get to know each other better, and celebrate all we have in common, which is the betterment of our local communities.”

Asbell said Tuesday’s event will feature food, soft drinks, and entertainment. There will be bouncy houses set-up for children.

“Everything is free,” Asbell said.

Hertford County Sheriff Dexter Hayes said events like this are critical in helping law enforcement agencies maintain a healthy relationship with those they serve.

“We feel it’s very important for our citizens, especially our young people, to come out and see and understand what we do in our line of work,” Hayes said. “We do more than just protect and serve. We are members of the community and engage in community activities.

“We use events like this to strengthen our partnerships within our local communities as we have to join together in an effort to slow down criminal activity and criminal violence here,” Hayes added.

“Come on out Tuesday evening and bring your children for a night of free fun,” Hayes concluded.