Police Launch Holiday Crime Prevention Effort At Westshore Plaza

TAMPA, FL — To ensure the safety of holiday shoppers, the Tampa Police Department launched its annual Operation Holiday Greeting Tuesday at the Westshore Plaza parking lot between JCPenney and Dick's Sporting Goods.

Chief Brian Dugan, along with members of the mounted patrol, bicycle patrol and K9 unit, greeted shoppers to the mall as a part of the department's mission to be visible throughout the holiday season in an effort to reduce crime.

As the residents shop this holiday season, they will see Tampa Police officers in cars, on bicycle, on foot and even on horseback patrolling the parking lots and stores in some of the most frequented retail establishments in the city, said Dugan.

There may even be officers dressed as elves, or at least in plain clothes, to handle those who choose to be on the naughty list.

Traffic units will focus on traffic enforcement as the roadways see increased activity in and around retail establishments like International and Westshore plazas and the Dale Mabry retail corridor.

Shoppers can also help deter crime by following some of these safety tips:

• If your car has a trunk, use it. Put valuables in the trunk or in a locked glove compartment. Never leave cell phones, briefcases, suitcases or electronic devices in plain view. Take these items with you, or secure them.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Remember to keep your car doors locked. The majority of auto burglaries are committed on unlocked vehicles.