Night Out Against Crime Asks: Who Are the Officers in Your Neighborhood?

This is the first of a regular feature that will report on some of the events and people of Frankfort not normally in the spotlight, as well as taking a look behind the headlines of big stories.

Five years ago, members of the Frankfort Police Department descended on , not to apprehend any lawbreakers, but as part of an effort to let residents meet and get to know the officers on the force.

On Tuesday, the department will continue its participation in the national event, a community crime prevention program held across the country each year.  

"I knew that other towns participated, and the police department thought it would be a great way to involve the community in crime prevention and awareness," said Officer Leanne Bender, one of the organizer's for Frankfort's event. 

This year's Night Out will include demonstrations from the police K9 unit and the Frankfort Fire Prevention District, as well as kids games, raffles and face painters. Police Chief John Burica also will be grilling hot dogs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., and a shredding truck will be availble for residents to destroy personal documents.

"I hope that after this night, the residents of Frankfort get to know our officers a little better, get information to help keep them safe, and that they have a great time," Bender said. 

As part of an effort to educate the public, Bender passed along five general, common sense crime prevention tips:

1. Report suspicious or unusual activity. 
2. Lock all of your doors and windows, including car doors.
3. Never leave valuable items in plain view inside your vehicle.
4. Always be aware of your surroundings.
5. Beware of suspicious e-mail or "snail mail." If something seems to good to be true, it probably is.

Frankfort Night Out Against Crime

When: 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 2
Where: Breidert Green, Kansas and White streets
More info: Go to the village's website for more details.