Those who attended the family-friendly event enjoyed a free barbecue and ice cream, courtesy of Suffolk Federal Credit Union. Riverhead police officers took turns manning — and splashing in — the dunk tank, and other games like axe-throwing were a big hit.

There was also plenty of cool police equipment to get up close to — including police motorcycles, bikes, ATVs and a police boat — as well as Command Post, SWAT and dive equipment to see. In addition to drone demonstrations, K-9 officers Loki and Onyx showed off their skills with the help of their handlers, officers John Morris and Chris Burns.

And, of course, it would not be a Riverhead National Night Out without a visit from McGruff the Crime Dog, who gave out many high fives and hugs during the event.

“I say this all the time, and I mean it, and I truly believe that we have the best police department in Suffolk County and probably on Long Island,” said Riverhead Town Supervisor Tim Hubbard. “They’re dedicated, they have many family members here today, they’re local, their kids go to school with everybody’s kids. It’s a real nice community police department — under the leadership of Chief [Ed] Frost, we’ve really moved forward.”

Check out Ana Borruto’s photos below from Riverhead’s National Night Out:

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From 5 to 8 p.m., across from the Suffolk, attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions of department members or just get to know one another. Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions or socialize with the members of the Riverhead Police Department.

The family-friendly event will include a free barbecue and live music; free ice cream, courtesy of Suffolk Federal Credit Union; a dunk tank — with perhaps a Riverhead Police Department officer in it; games and give-aways and a visit from McGruff the Crime Dog.

There will also be K-9 and drone demonstrations; police motorcycle, bike, boat, car and ATVs to get up close to; as well as Command Post, SWAT and dive equipment to see.

The Riverhead Police Department requested that neighborhoods hold porch vigils by leaving their front lights on between 7 and 10 p.m. in addition to the Town Square festivities.

The stated purposes of the annual National Night Out include: heightening crime and drug awareness; generating support for, and participate in, local anti-crime programs; strengthening neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships; and sending a message to criminals letting them know that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back against crime.

Town Supervisor Tim Hubbard remarked about the event at a recent work session, admitting that as an officer on the Crime Prevention Unit, he has worn the McGruff the Crime Dog costume on more than one occasion.

“All residents are invited to join,” he continued. “Come on down and celebrate crime prevention week, the first Tuesday in August. It’ll be a nice gathering down there. The police department is doing a great job, so I look forward to going down there.”

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