Boyle Heights neighbors say they notice reduced crime during National Night Out event

BOYLE HEIGHTS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- On Tuesday night, cities across the nation hosted National Night Out events. In Los Angeles, one of the goals is to reduce crime and restore trust between the community and police.

But, is it actually working? Neighbors in Boyle Heights say they believe it is.

Music, dancing, food and a petting zoo brought the crowd and the vibes to East L.A. Organizers say National Night Out is a summertime party with a purpose.

"It's about safety. It's about community. And it's about building trust and relationships," said LAPD Asst. Chief Emada Tingirides.

For the past 16 years, National Night Out has given Officer Donald Levier the opportunity to personally connect with kids and teens in Boyle Heights.

"That really, really strikes home because it gives me a chance to kind of humanize the badge," Levier said.

Similar events were held across Southern California on Tuesday, including in San Gabriel.

"The fire department and the police department are pretty much at every event here in San Gabriel," said resident Michelle Ramirez. "They're always reaching out to the community, so it's pretty cool."

City leaders say that outreach -- along with a more extensive, community-led approach toward public safety -- is driving down crime.

Neighbors in East L.A. say they have noticed and believe crime is down compared to this time last year.

"Last year, we had a lot more homicides," neighbor Margarita Amator said.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass's Office of Community Safety estimates gang-related crime throughout the city last year was down 45% compared to 2023 as a result of the agency working with people most at-risk.

One Boyle Heights resident said she has noticed more police patrols in the area and feels safer.

"It's not too much crime like before. No. It's always quiet," Mary said.

"Crime has gone down and we're happy about that," resident Carlos Montes said.

Montes said he's pleased with the mayor's crime-fighting strategy, but he has suggestions.

"I think she is on the right track, but we need to continue to invest money into housing, social programs, youth programs, that will keep crime down and that will make L.A. a better city," Montes said.