National Take Back Day is led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which established this day to address the drug overdose epidemic in the U.S. Thousands of people die each year in prescription opioid deaths; in 2022, the number of deaths was 14,716 according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.
"DEA is committed to making our communities safer and healthier, and we can do this by reducing overdoses and overdose deaths," the DEA's website states. "While the community does its part to turn in unneeded medications and remove them from potential harm, we are doing our part to further reduce drug-related violence."
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Concerns over underage drinking and people bringing outside alcohol into the First Friday event in Manassas have prompted city officials to reconsider how the popular downtown gathering is managed. Interim City Manager Doug Keen and Police Capt. Tara Petty exchanged text messages on September 6, 2024, discussing growing issues with public safety and communication during the event.
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The Manassas City Council is re-evaluating the popular First Fridays event, a staple in the city’s historic downtown, following feedback from residents, businesses, and local authorities regarding public safety and overall event management.
At the heart of the review is the need to balance the community appeal of First Fridays with growing concerns about safety, traffic congestion, and parking. The council is considering changes to ensure the event remains a vibrant part of city life while addressing logistical challenges.
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Schools across the region are on heightened alert today as police investigate multiple incidents at schools in Manassas and Stafford County. While no immediate danger has been reported, authorities are taking extra precautions to ensure student and staff safety.
Incident at Osbourn High School, Manassas
At 12:23 p.m., Manassas City Police responded to a suspicious event at Osbourn High School. The School Resource Officer (SRO) quickly began an investigation and contained the situation. According to police, no current threat exists to the school, and operations are continuing as usual. Additional police presence will be maintained while the investigation continues, though officials have no plans to alter the school day.
Social Media Threats in Stafford County
In Stafford County, school officials and law enforcement are addressing threats circulating on social media, particularly at the middle school level. The messages reportedly made general threats of harm to multiple schools in the area. However, law enforcement has thoroughly investigated the claims and does not believe the threats are credible now.
Stafford County law enforcement emphasized their commitment to school safety and encouraged the community to report suspicious behavior. “If you see or hear anything of concern, say something right away,” said local authorities. “Report it to your School Resource Officer, school administrator, or teacher.”
Both school districts have reassured parents that they are maintaining vigilance and working closely with local law enforcement to ensure the safety of students and staff.
No disruptions to the school schedule have been announced in either county, though parents and students are encouraged to stay informed and report any concerns.
*Incident Alert* at 12:23pm Police responded for a suspicious event at Osbourn High School. The SRO began an investigation and contained it immediately. The schools are operating normally with no plans to change that. There is an extra police presence during the investigation. pic.twitter.com/pa78pfRZVp
— Manassas City Police (@ManassasCityPD) September 12, 2024
Manassas detectives arrested a suspect following a 48-hour investigation into a recent abduction and robbery incident of a girl waiting for a school bus.
Jesus Enrique Ramirez Cabrera, 23, of Manassas, was taken into custody on the evening of September 6 and is being held without bond at the Prince William County Adult Detention Center.
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Manassas police: "We are looking for Alani Cortez Ramirez. She is a 17 year old Hispanic female that voluntarily left her resident in Manassas earlier today."
*Missing Juvenile* 8.6.2024 at 9:21pm We are looking for Alani Cortez Ramirez. She is a 17 year old Hispanic female that voluntarily left her resident in Manassas earlier today. She was last seen in a white blouse with possibly a black jacket. Contact us at 703-257-8000. pic.twitter.com/rXDjXjWVFt
— Manassas City Police (@ManassasCityPD) August 7, 2024
Here is information about the upcoming National Night Out events in our region. The annual event is tomorrow, August 6, 2024, except Stafford County, which holds its event later in the year.
Manassas Park
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A tense situation unfolded in the 8300 block of Georgian Court late last night, resulting in a significant police presence. The incident began around 11:15 p.m. on June 12, 2024, when police surrounded a single residence where an individual was reportedly refusing to come out.
Authorities responded swiftly, ensuring the area was secure and contained. As a precautionary measure, neighbors were advised to stay indoors while the police attempted to resolve the standoff.
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The Prince William County Chamber of Commerce held its 38th Annual Valor Awards hosted by Julianna Valencia from WRC-TV in Washington, D.C., celebrating the bravery and dedication of police, fire, and rescue workers.
More than 240 first responders from Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park were recognized for their life-saving actions and courageous service. Their respective chiefs nominated them, and a committee of peers and business community members selected them.
![Lieutenant Shawn M. Peak with elected officials from Prince William County. L-R: Supervisor Yesli Vega, School Board member Erica Tredinnick, Supervisor Tom Gordy [Photo: Alan Gloss]](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/0524-prince-william-valor-awards-1-1260x840.jpg){kind=link}
