VCU news

By Corey Byers

Twenty Virginia Commonwealth University Police Department officers participated in National Night Out events in neighborhoods near VCU on the night of Aug. 5. Events were hosted by area neighborhood associations and the Richmond Police Department.

Each year, law enforcement organizations across the country organize events to strengthen police partnerships with communities and raise awareness of crime prevention programs. Events in Richmond featured cook-outs, music, children’s activities and the opportunity for police officers to speak with Richmond residents about crime prevention and safety concerns.

“National Night Out gatherings give officers the chance to meet VCU’s neighbors and learn more about each neighborhood’s concerns,” VCU Police Chief John Venuti said. “Community policing is a top priority for the department and that includes building relationships with the families and businesses surrounding VCU. We had the chance to speak one-on-one with people who can help us make communities in our jurisdiction as safe as we can.”

As part of their travels, VCU Police officers visited the pediatric unit of the VCU Medical Center, and the Carver, Randolph, Fan District, Jackson Ward and Oregon Hill neighborhoods. McGruff the Crime Dog started at the medical center and made appearances at other locations. Officers handed out coloring books, crayons and VCU Police badge stickers to local children.

Officer Greg Felton, the department’s external relations officer, also visited each neighborhood event. Felton regularly meets with neighborhood and civic groups around the university to proactively address various concerns from residents throughout the year.

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