HARRISONBURG, Va. (ROCKTOWN NOW) – The Harrisonburg Police Department is collaborating with the James Madison University Police Department and the JMU Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices to hold a knock-and-talk event Thursday afternoon.

As students return to Harrisonburg for the new academic year, HPD and JMU PD officers will visit off-campus housing areas to promote student safety and build positive relationships. They will inform them about city ordinances, state laws, and best practices for being responsible community members.

“Through education and transparency, HPD continues to greet JMU students before the new school year. This initiative allows students to familiarize themselves with us and engage in meaningful conversations while also staying informed about new laws and community expectations,” says Special Operations Lieutenant Charles Grubbs.

HPD collaborates with JMU annually to ensure students are well-informed about community resources, laws, and ordinances. The goal of the annual knock-and-talks is to enhance safety through education, and they have become an excellent opportunity to foster positive relationships.

HPD encourages students and Harrisonburg residents to download the Harrisonburg PD app powered by tip411. The app helps residents connect with HPD, view community alerts, and submit anonymous tips. Those without a smartphone can send an anonymous text tip via their cell phone or by texting the keyword HPDVA and their message/tip to 847411 (tip411).