McGruff the Crime Dog, the National Crime Prevention Council’s symbol of safety and crime prevention, is turning 35 this year. He is marking the occasion with a month-long social media celebration. McGruff made his first appearance on Instagram (follow @McGruff_NCPC) on his birthday, July 1, 2015. Celebrate McGruff’s and the National Crime Prevention Council’s efforts to "Take A Bite Out Of Crime" by joining the organization on your favorite social media site.

Participants are encouraged to post photos with McGruff, share memories, or simply send him a birthday shout out using the hashtag #McGruff35. Participation can also take place on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. A photo of McGruff can be downloaded here. Print, cut out, and upload photos of you and McGruff to Instagram using the hashtag #McGruff35. Take him with you as you celebrate summer and remember to practice good safety habits.

In 1980, a dog in a rumpled trench coat said, "You don't know me yet. But you will." Since then, McGruff the Crime Dog has taught millions of people that law enforcement can't fight crime alone. Crime prevention is everybody's business and everyone can help "Take A Bite Out Of Crime." Through television commercials, comic books, live appearances, and more, McGruff has encouraged Americans to take reasonable steps to prevent crime.

Current issues include preventing elder abuse, bullying/cyberbullying, intellectual property theft/counterfeits, mortgage fraud, financial fraud, and preventing 18- to 24-year-olds from becoming first-time victims of crime. Other issues include safe firearms storage, preventing gang violence, and promoting crime prevention tactics for homes, neighborhoods, and individuals. Friend NCPC on Facebook, follow NCPC on Twitter and Instagram, and connect with them on LinkedIn to stay connected as the National Crime Prevent Council shares easy-to-use crime prevention tips that protect what matters most — you, your family, and your community.

Join the National Crime Prevent Council in July, using the hashtag #McGruff35.

About the National Crime Prevention Council

The National Crime Prevention Council is a nonprofit organization dedicated to crime prevention. For 35 years, its symbol of safety, McGruff the Crime Dog, has delivered easy-to-use crime prevention tips that protect what matters most—you, your family, and your community. Since 1982, NCPC has continuously provided the American public with comprehensive educational materials, training programs, and effective crime prevention messaging, delivered in large part through its vast network of more than 10,000 state and local law enforcement agencies, crime prevention associations, community groups, foundations, and corporate partners. For more information on how NCPC can be a public safety expert for you or how to "Take A Bite Out of Crime," visit www.ncpc.org.