BY BRANDY TEMPLETON

The Statesville Police Department hosted its annual “Night Out” in Downtown Statesville on Tuesday evening.

The free event stresses the importance of good relations between the police department and residents. It also helps bring awareness to crime prevention and serves as a meet and greet between officers and citizens.

After the event was canceled for two years due to the pandemic, many citizens participated, enjoying free food, entertainment, and opportunities to see safety vehicles up close.

Chief David Onley was pleased with the turnout, saying many of his officers attended after completing their shifts.

“It’s been great seeing the officers back out in public,” he said. “A lot of these were on duty for day shift but came out on their time.”

Onley also said that the officers coordinated the event themselves and brought their own families.

“It was all their own work — I pushed for the funnel cakes,” he said. “It’s good seeing officers that are comfortable bringing their own families out.”

Iredell -Statesville Schools Superintendent Jeff James said it’s good to get involved with the community, especially helping inner-city schools with programs like Boys & Girls Club, Power Cross, Truth Girls, and Call Me Mr.

“It’s never bad when kids are around caring adults and good mentors,” James said. “The community needs to come together. I’ve always said it takes a village.”

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