Elk Grove Police Encourage Safe Holiday Shopping Experiences

Listen: Jason Jimenez with the Elk Grove Police Department

Beginning November 28th and continuing until December 24 th , the Elk Grove Police Department will be increasing the number of officers on patrol in local shopping centers. The increased police presence will allow officers to focus on suspicious activity occurring in and around shopping centers, which historically have experienced a seasonal increase in criminal activity. Officers will be patrolling local shopping areas throughout Elk Grove as part of a proactive approach designed to reduce crime, increase visibility and educate the community on how to be more careful, prepared and aware during the holiday shopping season.

These patrols will be conducted by officers in marked patrol vehicles, unmarked vehicles and on foot. As a reminder, the Elk Grove Police Department would like to provide the following holiday safety tips:

• Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings at all times. • Do not leave packages or valuables in plain sight inside your vehicle. • Hide valuables from sight before you reach your destination, or, even better, take items with you. • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. • Only carry the credit cards and cash that you absolutely need to make purchases. • If you carry a purse, keep under your arm close to your body. • Put wallets in an inside pocket of your jacket or front pants pocket. • If shopping after dark, shop with a friend if possible. • Always park your car in a well-lit area. • Scan parking lots from inside the business before exiting. If you observe something that makes you feel unsafe, ask the store to have someone help you to your car. If you see suspicious activity call EGPD. • Always check the interior of your car before you unlock the door to get in. • Lock your car doors and windows even if you are only gone for a few minutes.