Don’t even think about hosting a mob theft in Fresno: Chief Balderrama – GV Wire

With smash-and-grabs happening across California, local law enforcement agencies are banding together to keep people and their property safe during the Christmas vacation. The police are also on the lookout to protect companies.

“For the people out there who may be planning some type of mob theft that we have seen (elsewhere in California), we will not tolerate this and we will hold you accountable.” – Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama

Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama and other police officers announced the start of Operation Christmas Presence at a press conference held at River Park Mall on Saturday, December 11th.

“We ask members of our community to remain vigilant, we have been conducting this operation for 24 years, and in those 24 years we have been very successful in protecting this community,” said Balderrama.

“For the people out there who may be planning some type of mob theft that we have seen (elsewhere in California), we will not tolerate this and we will hold you accountable.”

Related Story: Latest California Smash and Grab Captured on Video

Safety tips for vacation buyers

Patrol officers, undercover agents and volunteers patrol shopping streets and parking lots and give buyers safety tips.

“Education comes first,” said Lt. Bill Dooley of the Fresno Police Department. “With over 900 companies registered with the Chamber of Commerce and even more with the city itself, officials cannot be everywhere at all times.”

The Fresno Police Department recommends that you shop for gifts with a friend or family member and not shop at night. Also, you should never park in an unlit parking lot or area – no matter how convenient it is.

Lock your parcels in the trunk of your vehicle as well, keeping the doors locked and the windows closed.

When in your home, do not display gifts where they can be seen from a window or door.

Safety tips and links

Here is the full list of Fresno Police Department tips on staying safe while shopping.

Find tips from the Fresno County Sheriff’s Department on safety and crime prevention.