The Bridgeport Police Department’s newest officers gathered with the community for National Night Out. 

A parade of police cadets arrived at Washington Park Tuesday to kick off the event. 

The aim of the national event is to build relationships between law enforcement and the community they serve. 

“I decided to join the Bridgeport Police Department because I want to be a positive role model for my kids’ lives,” says Bridgeport Officer Nicasius Felix. “We are here to tell the community that we care and that we love them, and we want to do right by them in all needs.”

There were sports and games that joined together residents and police officers.  

“It's the message…a day of cooperation, participation, partnership. It's the day that we can come together,” says Acting Chief Rebecca Garcia.