Law enforcement kicks off annual Operation Christmas Presence in Fresno

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Local enforcement is teaming up to keep shoppers and retailers safe this holiday season during the 26th year of Operation Presence.

Shoppers at Fig Garden Village Shopping Center say they take precautions when out shopping to keep their purchases safe.

"Try to put them in the trunk at all possible, you know, or below the backseat," said Derik Bakker, a shopper.

Bakker said he isn't necessarily more vigilant during the holiday season, but seeing increased law enforcement at shopping centers is a good reminder to play it safe.

"Whether it's gifts and shopping season, I just feel like we just get so internalized on our phones, but I just think the awareness is huge in any area," said Bakker.

Raising awareness is just part of the goal of Operation Christmas Presence.

"Take those things that are visible in your car, your wallets, your purses, those things that you've bought in our shopping centers throughout Fresno County," said Undersheriff Steve McComas, FCSO. "Take those away and don't make them visible. Criminals thrive on those opportunities to steal your things out of your cars and make you a victim."

The Fresno Police Department, the Fresno County Sheriff's Office, and the California Highway Patrol are teaming up to make sure shoppers and retailers are covered as they check off items on their shopping lists.

"Part of our strategy will include increased uniform patrols in our shopping areas and our major corridors, an increase in undercover personnel including detectives in the same areas, the use of bicycle patrol, horseback patrol, use of our helicopter program," said Deputy Chief Mike Landon, Fresno Police Department.

Local store owners may want to consider installing security cameras if they don't already have them.

"With the amount of video surveillance both private and public that's out there today," said Landon. "That really helps us in solving crimes people, especially with retail sales, people think they might have gotten away with it or they've conceal their identity. But we have ways of ultimately finding out who they are holding them responsible."

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