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Residents Responsive to “Crime Night Out”

Community Affairs Officer Luis Diaz gives a hand to children atop the rock-climbing inflatable.

Aug. 10, 2012 By Pat Dorfman

More than 1,000 residents turned out at John Andrews Park in Long Island City on Tuesday to attend the annual “Crime Night Out” festivities.

The gathering was held to support the interaction between law enforcement officials and residents throughout precinct 108, which includes Sunnyside, Woodside and LIC. Approximately half of those who attended the event were children under 12, who enjoyed the DJ, the free food donated by local restaurants, cotton candy, and a large assortment of giant inflatable play structures.

The event was sponsored by the NYPD 108 Police Precinct, the 108 Community Council and Hunters Point Community Development. It was funded by donations from businesses and organizations.

Captain Donald Powers, Commanding Officer of the 108 Precinct, chats with a mother and toddler.

Among the booths set up with giveaways were those offering more information about jobs in law enforcement, human rights, membership in the Queens Public Library and precinct officials. An officer from Corrections noted, “It seemed as though we had some genuine interest.” Among the many donors were Jet Blue, donating three domestic fares for raffle, and the Turkish Cultural Center.

Don McCallian, treasurer of the 108 Police Community Council, said, “The weather was good for us, and with all the police protection, no one was worried about their kids.” (photos by Pat Dorfman)