Police urged residents and visitors to remain alert in crowded areas, secure vehicles and packages, and avoid leaving valuables visible
The Santa Monica Police Department has launched an expanded holiday enforcement operation, deploying additional foot, bicycle and vehicle patrols in shopping districts and residential neighborhoods through the end of the year.
The heightened presence is aimed at deterring property crimes, impaired driving and package thefts during the busy shopping season, police said.
Officers will focus on high-visibility patrols in retail corridors, increased DUI and traffic enforcement, and stepped-up outreach through the department’s Homeless Liaison Program. The operation follows four core priorities set by Chief Ramon Batista: crime prevention, community engagement, public-order enforcement with compassion, and traffic safety.
Police urged residents and visitors to remain alert in crowded areas, secure vehicles and packages, and avoid leaving valuables visible. Authorities also recommended using timers on home lights when traveling and delaying social media posts that indicate a house is unoccupied.
Anyone witnessing suspicious activity was asked to call the non-emergency line at 310-458-8491 or dial 911 for emergencies.
