STATEMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL JOHN ASHCROFT
ON NATIONAL NIGHT OUT:

“As the sun sets on August 5th, and street lights blink on as dusk spreads across the land, Americans across this great nation will take to the sidewalks of their neighborhoods for National Night Out.

“National Night Out is a strong, annual showing of solidarity, community pride and civic responsibility. It is an excellent way for all Americans to join with friends and family to demonstrate that crime does not rule the night and that criminals have no haven in the growing shadows.

“Many of those participating in the Night Out are members of the National Neighborhood Watch program, an instrumental and vital anti-crime program that is focused on making America safer neighborhood by neighborhood from the threat of crime and - in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks - terrorism.

“As Attorney General of the United States, I have the opportunity to work closely with Neighborhood Watch through the National Sheriffs' Association. Law enforcement, in partnership with neighbors across the nation, have come together to meet the challenge and double the number of Neighborhood Watch groups as a part of President Bush's call to service through USA Freedom Corps.

“National Neighborhood Watch is a simple program of neighbors looking after neighbors, and in doing so, you are looking out for your nation. More than 30 years later, National Neighborhood Watch has re-invented itself in a time when we needed it more than ever, and today, it remains our nation’s flagship citizen-partnership program.

“I commend those who have met the challenge and increased Neighborhood Watch in their communities, and I encourage you to rededicate your efforts to energize your program. If you are not involved in Neighborhood Watch, I urge you to join.

“Please join us as we work to help make America safe and secure. All forms of crime - including terrorism - can isolate us and breed fear and uncertainty, but as citizens we are called to action, not isolation. These are times that call for more - not less - civic awareness, commitment and vigilance.

“Enjoy National Night Out knowing that millions of your fellow neighbors are with you this evening keeping our streets safe and our nation secure.”

###

03-441