BAYSHORE — Residents across Galveston County took part in National Night Out on Tuesday, an annual event that brings law enforcement and the community together to promote safety, trust, and communication.

The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office and their Citizen’s Alumni Association hosted the gathering in Bayshore, where families met local officers and learned more about public safety programs.

Sheriff Jimmy Fullen said the event provides an opportunity for deputies to engage with residents outside of daily law enforcement duties.

“It allows our law enforcement to get out into our communities where we don’t often get the chance on a daily basis,” Fullen said. “We’re able to meet our neighbors and get to know everybody in the community.”

Fullen, who has served within Galveston County for 37 years, commended his deputies for their ongoing work in tracking sex offenders, making narcotics and auto crime arrests, and improving community outreach.

Precinct 1 Constable Derrick Patton said National Night Out helps build stronger relationships between officers and residents.

“It’s a great opportunity for the public to come out and interact with their local law enforcement,” Patton said. “It helps create a good working relationship between the public and law enforcement.”

The event included demonstrations from various sheriff’s office divisions, including the mounted patrol, SWAT team, and marine unit. Captain Fillmore said the mounted patrol often participates in community events such as Juneteenth, Fourth of July celebrations, and Jeep Weekend.

Sergeant Filidei said the Citizen Sheriffs Academy alumni group co-hosted the event and helps organize outreach efforts.

“The academy is a way for us to build a bridge between law enforcement and the local community,” Filidei said. “Participants get to see how we operate and why we do what we do.”

Alumni member Crystal Morgan said about 50 active members assist the sheriff’s office throughout the year.

Deputy Brock Sanford said events like National Night Out allow the public to see deputies in a different light.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to humanize the badge,” Sanford said. “People get to know us on a personal level and understand that we’re out there protecting them.”

Sanford also leads the Sanford Claus Foundation, a nonprofit that provides Christmas gifts and operates free food pantries across Texas City through its Blessing Boxes program.

National Night Out events were held throughout Galveston County, each aimed at strengthening community relationships and improving public trust in law enforcement.