WHEELING, W.Va. — Law enforcement officers and first responders came together with Ohio Valley residents Tuesday evening as Wheeling celebrated the annual National Night Out.
Held each year on the first Tuesday in August, National Night Out is designed to strengthen relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. The event gives residents, particularly children and families, an opportunity to interact with officers outside of emergency situations.
The Wheeling Police Department and Ohio County Sheriff’s Office participated in this year’s celebration, giving attendees an up-close look at law enforcement equipment and providing opportunities to learn more about the work officers perform throughout the community.
Wheeling Police Chief Shawn Schwertfeger said events like National Night Out allow officers to build connections with residents in a relaxed environment rather than during a crisis or other difficult situation.
Schwertfeger said those interactions are especially meaningful when officers have the opportunity to meet and speak with children in the community.
Throughout the evening, attendees were able to watch a K9 demonstration, view equipment used by local law enforcement and meet officers and first responders.
Free food and giveaways were also available for children and families attending the event.
Officials said the annual gathering is part of an ongoing effort to maintain positive relationships between law enforcement and residents throughout Wheeling and the surrounding Ohio Valley.
