As the holiday season approaches, Shelby County law enforcement agencies are ramping up security measures to ensure public safety during peak shopping times. The Shelby County Sheriff’s Department has launched ‘Operation Jingle Bells’, a program aimed at increasing the visibility of law enforcement in key commercial areas. According to WREG, the initiative is focused on providing peace of mind to shoppers during this busy period.
To deter potential thieves, law enforcement officers will be to visibly patrol shopping centers and parking lots. “Is a time to reflect on our blessings, our family, friends, health, jobs, and the safety of living in a secure community,” Sheriff Floyd Bonner was quoted by WREG. However, with the festive joys come the increased risks of theft and property crime, a concern that 'Operation Jingle Bells' aims to address.
The initiative, in partnership with officers from various municipalities including Memphis, Bartlett, Germantown, and Collierville, also banks on community participation. Residents are reminded to follow the ‘stow it don’t show it’ principle – to either hide or remove valuables from their vehicles to prevent break-ins. This collaborative approach extends beyond physical patrolling, involving shared advice and tips for shopping safely.
As revealed by FOX13, Chief Deputy Anthony Buckner commented on the operation's costs, stating, “I can tell you that it costs us about $130,000 a year when we get the final tallies, but it’s a cost that is well worth it.” He emphasized the positive feedback from businesses and shoppers, indicating a sense of heightened security that comes with the increased patrols.
Additional precautions are advised for the public. Shopping in groups, parking in well-lit areas, and varying one's routine by moving vehicles after dropping off purchases are among the strategies encouraged to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of crime. For those driving models of vehicles more susceptible to theft, such as certain Hyundais and Kias, Deputy Chief Samuel Hines encourages the use of steering wheel locks, which can be obtained for free at Memphis Police precincts, as per his statement to FOX13.
The importance of 'Operation Jingle Bells' was also shared on social media, with ShelbyTNSheriff’s post thanking Action News 5 and Stephanie Douglas for covering the initiative. By uniting the efforts of various law enforcement agencies and communicating safety tips to the public, Shelby County aims to preserve cheer and tranquility during the final months of the year.
The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Prepares for this year's Operation Jingle Bells along with our other law enforcement partners to help keep you safe this holiday season. Action News 5 and Stephanie Douglas, thank you for covering this important story. https://t.co/u5eTSdvlGj
— ShelbyTNSheriff (@ShelbyTNSheriff) November 27, 2024
