Reducing crime during the holiday season is the intent of a heightened enforcement program by the Riverside Police Department that begins today.
The potential need for extra vigilance was underscored Friday in Palm Desert, where two men killed each other in a shootout inside a Toys "R" Us store packed with shoppers and their children.
From today to Jan. 2, uniformed and undercover officers will be assigned to increased patrols in Riverside's busy shopping and high-traffic areas, police Lt. Ken Raya said.
Officers and investigators will also meet with business owners and try to keep track of individuals with known criminal histories, Raya said.
The enforcement program targeting the Christmas and New Year holidays is
in its third year, according to Raya.
Raya said three ways for people to avoid becoming a holiday crime victim are to lock doors and windows when leaving home or a vehicle; avoid leaving packages where they can be seen from outside a home or vehicle; and keep an eye out for suspicious activity and report it to police immediately.
Raya also reminded party-goers to assign designated drivers.
"Riverside is a busy, active and attractive place during the holidays," Raya said. "Join with the Riverside Police Department to ensure a sensible, enjoyable holiday season for all."
