Bedford Police Increase Patrols At Shopping Areas To Deter Crime

BEDFORD, MA — Bedford police are making sure this season's holiday shopping goes off without a hitch. The department announced on Wednesday that it will increase patrols in popular shopping areas to try to deter crime. Bedford Police Department’s annual Operation P.A.C.E. (Pro-Active Community Enforcement) is in charge of the increased patrols.

There will be increased marked police cruisers and a mix of uniformed and plainclothes officers in the town’s retail plazas. Established in 2014, Operation P.A.C.E. works to curb retail theft, shoplifting, breaking and entering into motor vehicles, purse snatching, robbery, and traffic and parking related problems.

Several marked and unmarked cruisers will be regularly stationed at the plaza on Great Road near Shawsheen Road and the Bedford Marketplace at 160 Great Road, as well as other locations.

According to the department, several shoplifters have been arrested over the past six years thanks to the increased police patrols and quick response times of Bedford police officers.

“This is already shaping up to be a busy holiday shopping season, and we want residents and business owners to feel comfortable knowing that our officers are increasing patrols in the area,” Chief Bongiorno said. “Community members are encouraged to say hello to our officers and to let us know if they notice any suspicious activity.”

Residents who notice something suspicious, but do not see an officer in their immediate vicinity, should call the Bedford Police Department at 781-275-1212 to report it. Citizens can also submit tips through email at bedfordpolice@police.bedfordma.gov. All those providing tips may remain anonymous if they choose to.