Suffolk Police To Beef Up Holiday Patrols

YAPHANK, NY — Suffolk officials say the police department will be stepping up enforcement over the holidays, keeping a special eye on business districts, significant holy days, and drunk driving throughout the holiday season.

Officers and auxiliary police will be "increasing patrols in and around business districts and shopping centers throughout the holiday season to protect shoppers," and traffic conditions will also be monitored during popular shopping days, officials said.

Police are urging consumers to stay alert while shopping, and the brass is asking them to never leave purses or wallets unattended in a cart; to shop with friends; and to keep valuables out of sight in vehicles while keeping car doors locked.

Members of the department will be meeting with religious leaders to discuss appropriate security measures for their congregations, and the department is expected to perform increased patrol checks at religious institutions during "significant days of worship," officials said.

Keeping Suffolk's roadways "safe and free of impaired drivers" will continue to be a high priority, according to officials.

Extra patrols aimed at drunk drivers will be placed throughout the county during the entire holiday season "with an emphasis during Thanksgiving weekend, and the week of Christmas and New Year's," officials said.

There will be a zero-tolerance approach to anyone choosing to drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol, according to officials.

County Executive Steve Bellone said, "the holiday season should be a time filled with joy and loved ones, but we have seen far too many needless tragedies."

"As always, the SCPD will be out in full force to protect our roadways and holiday shoppers, and anyone who makes the decision to break the law will be held accountable,” he said.

Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison said, "there is no holiday when it comes to public safety.”

“Our officers will be working around the clock to ensure residents enjoy this festive season," he said. "I would like to thank SCPD officers who will be taking time away from their families to safeguard Suffolk County.”