National Night Out on the Central Coast

A special night for Central Coast law enforcement and the communities they serve.

National Night Out drew thousands to events hosted by sheriff’s deputies and police.

Salinas Police say National Night Out started back in the early 1980s. Today the event is just as important as ever, giving them a chance to get to know the people they serve.

It’s an event law enforcement agencies across the country look forward to. In Salinas, thousands came to take part.

Law enforcement use the night as a chance to interact with the community they serve and rarely get to spend time with in this way.

SWAT trucks, helicopters and fire engines were there for people to see, alongside bounce houses and other activities for kids.

Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office also joined in on the fun. At one event in Watsonville, deputies say it’s as much fun for them as it is for the public.

“It’s a great opportunity to see the human side of our policing,” said Sergeant Peter Hansen. “Just to interact on a one-to-one basis with a lot of people.”

People say they also appreciate the time they get to spend with the officers.

“This right here is what this town needs to be all about,” said Wastonville resident Shane Alderete. “They have to have this more often.”

“It also helps us have trust in our police department and kind of gives us that communication,” said Isabel G. Lopez, also from Watsonville.

Communication and trust, that law enforcement hopes extends beyond the event.

“We’re just normal people that just got a different job,” Sergeant Hansen said. “We’re just trying to make a better community.”

Other National Night Out events were held in Seaside, Marina, Soledad and King City. All wrapped up around 8 p.m. Tuesday.