POUGHKEEPSIE – The Poughkeepsie City Police Department’s participation in National Night Out (NNO) drew more than 1,000 people to the city hall complex on Tuesday evening.
Police agencies across the nation participate in NNO activities that are designed to strengthen the relationship between police and the community they serve. The City of Poughkeepsie police enlisted the help of neighboring police departments, Poughkeepsie firefighters, and dozens of vendors offering a wide array of services to the community.
Chief Assistant Dutchess County District Attorney Matt Weishaupt joined in the festivities while assistant DAs from the office interacted with attendees. Weishaupt is seeking to be the next Dutchess County DA and said, “Interaction with the community and transparency are vital to developing positive relationships with the residents we serve and I plan to improve those relationships. I want people to know that we are here to help everyone.”
The event, under the direction of City of Poughkeepsie Police Captain Rich Wilson and spearheaded by Detective Karen Zirbel, drew many visitors and impressed Mayor Rob Rolison. “This turnout is incredible,” Rolison said while surveying the crowd and greeting attendees.
During a break between interacting with children and their families, Rolison told Mid-Hudson News, “Our officers spend a tremendous amount of time preparing for this event that really brings police and the community together.” Rolison, a retired Town of Poughkeepsie detective with 26 years of police experience said, “This incredible turnout is proof that our city residents support our police and that is an integral part of keeping Poughkeepsie safe.”
