Margate National Night Out Unites the Public with the Law Enforcement Community

by David Volz August 6, 2025

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Margate hosted its annual National Night Out event at the Sports Complex on the evening of August 5.

The event brought together local, State, and Federal law enforcement agencies to meet with the public in a pleasant, family-oriented atmosphere. There was live musical entertainment, inflatable slides, carnival-style games, and hot dogs. Various civic organizations and faith groups also participated.

Major Kevin Stransky was pleased to see families and city officers enjoying a fun evening together.

“This is a positive community event. We reach out to agencies like the FBI and invite them to come, and they do,” he said.

Officer Antonio Careccia, a 35-year veteran and school resource officer at Margate Elementary School, kicked off the evening along with the city commission.

“It is good to see officers and residents have a good time together,” he said.

People could see some of the equipment that law enforcement personnel use in their work. Jeff Green of the FBI spoke to residents about careers and how the agency protects the public. They brought a Bearcat armored vehicle.

“This is a good opportunity for us to meet with the public. We use this Bearcat to deal with some bad people,” he said.

The Margate Fire Department conducted a demonstration showcasing their rescue techniques for individuals trapped in vehicles. They removed the roof of the car and then transported the victim to a waiting BSO helicopter. Attendees also had the opportunity to view the helicopter up close, which is one of two new helicopters in their fleet.

The Margate Police Department hosted a canine demonstration and showcased an armored vehicle used by the Margate SWAT team.

“We have this vehicle for significant problems like a hostage situation,” said Lieutenant Sean Cobban.

Members of the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, Florida National Guard, U.S. Border Patrol, Secret Service, and other agencies were present. The Broward Sheriff’s Office came and brought one of their prison buses. Members of the Coconut Creek and Coral Springs police departments were also present.

Commissioner Anthony Caggiano was excited about the event. “I love it. We have won national awards for our Night Out,” he said.

Mayor Arlene Schwartz said, “We always have a great Night Out and we had a good time tonight.”

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Author Profile

David Volz

David Volz has worked as a writer in South Florida for 35 years. He has written for the Sun-Sentinel, Hollywood Gazette, School Transportation News, South Dade News Leaders, Observer among others. He has an MA in Communications from Florida Atlantic University and a BA in Communications from Valparaiso University. Volz teaches Communications at Miami Dade College and Palm Beach State College. He lives in Coral Springs and enjoys running and participating in 5Ks and half-marathons.