Jacksonville Police Department 1st in the Nation for National Night Out

(JACKSONVILLE, TEXAS) On October 3rd, 2023, the Jacksonville Police Department (JPD) hosted its largest National Night Out event ever. Over 9,000 people attended the historic event where the police department and the community came together to celebrate the unity of our diverse town. The JPD has been recognized by the National Association of Town Watch for "Cities with a population between 5,000 and 15,000."

"I am extremely proud of our police department," said Mayor Randy Gorham. "There efforts to connect with the community, build positive relationships, and create a safe place to live and work culminated on October 3rd. They have been recognized for those incredible efforts with the award of 1st place in the Nation by the National Association of Town Watch. It's a tremendous example of the wonderful things the department is doing in Jacksonville!"

The Jacksonville Police Department has celebrated National Night Out for many years, following the model of small neighborhood events around town. In 2021, the department committed to make National Night Out the greatest, free event Jacksonville has ever seen with over 3,500 people in attendance and an award of 5th place in the nation. The event has only gotten better from there with 5,000 attendees in 2022 and 9,000 this year. National Night Out gives the department a chance to give back to the community and build trust while dancing, laughing, and eating together.

"We couldn't have done it without the support of this amazing community," said Amanda Bragg, Corporal over Community Engagement. "We had over $45,000 in donations this year from 90 organizations. Jacksonville is a community that comes together, celebrates together, and sticks together. While we have achieved 1st place this year, next year will be even better! We can't wait to see everyone there!"

"I am proud of the work Amanda has done to make National Night Out what it is," said Joe Willams, Police Chief. "We were able to fund her position with a grant in 2021 and her efforts since then have built trust and positive relationships with our residents."