As shoppers hit the stores, Valley police are doing their best to make this season a safe one. Friday, the Fresno Police Department officially launched it's "Operation Christmas Presence."
The season appears to be off to a pretty good start. Police were out at the major shopping centers across the Valley, where this increased patrolling seems to be paying off so far.
The holiday shopping season has officially begun. While shoppers at River Park scratched off their wish lists, police were on the lookout.
"We have increased thefts with the increased number of people coming out to shop and the parking lots all full with vehicles," says Sgt. Clayton Smith, Fresno Police Department.
Mounted officers and police in patrol cars roamed the mall, keeping an eye on the crowd and hoping to keep criminals at bay.
"So far, Christmas Presence is going fairly well. We've only had one report of a possible theft at one of the stores up in the River Park area. That was dealt with and everything seems to be moving along smoothly."
It was the same story over in Clovis.
Sgt. Jim Koch, Clovis Police Department says, "It's been very pleasant this year. We haven't had any significant incidents or any problems at all."
Police say they've had some hiccups, but nothing shopping related.
Sgt. Koch says, "We're very happy to have that. We want people to be able to have a good time and shop and stay safe."
The extra presence isn't going un-noticed or unappreciated.
Shopper Katrina Kennedy says, "I definitely feel a lot safer."
Clovis police are trying something new this year. They've posted fliers in and around stores reminding people to remove valuables from their cars while out shopping.
"It's good for the shoppers to feel at ease, so they don't have to worry as much about people trying to snatch stuff out of their cars when they turn their heads," says shopper Tina Haynes.
It's been smooth sailing so far, but there are still 31 days left until the holiday shopping season ends. So, police will remain cautiously optomistic.
"We look forward to having it be a good year, A good Christmas for everyone, "says Sgt. Koch.
The increased patrol will last through Christmas Eve. Undercover officers will be hand. Police will also be paying close attention to video surveillance.
TXT 24
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