Metro News Release

For immediate release: August 4, 2008

Metro Transit Police Department participates in National Night Out to raise awareness and strengthen community ties

The Metro Transit Police Department (MTPD) is taking part in this year’s National Night Out to raise awareness about crime prevention and strengthen ties with the riding public in communities served by Metro.

MTPD officers, including patrol, motorcycle and K9 teams, will be at the Anacostia, New Carrollton and Franconia-Springfield Metrorail stations from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, August 5. Along with volunteers from the local Elks Association, the officers will talk with Metro riders and distribute crime prevention literature, coloring books, crayons, pencils and key chains.

“We want Metrobus and Metrorail riders to know that we’re looking out for their safety and the safety of the communities where they live and work,” said Metro Transit Police Chief Michael Taborn.

The Metro Transit Police also will participate in a larger kickoff event with law enforcement agencies from across the region on the National Mall beginning at 4 p.m. on August 5.

Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch, National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in local anti-crime efforts, strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships, and send a message to criminals letting them know neighborhoods are organized and fighting back.

News release issued at 11:30 am, August 4, 2008.