FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — Law enforcement is stepping up patrols for the holiday season as Operation Christmas Presence officially kicks off in Fresno.
The Fresno Police Department, Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, and California Highway Patrol gathered at Fashion Fair Mall on Wednesday to launch the annual effort, which has been running since 1997.
The goal is simple: curb theft and keep shoppers safe during the busiest time of the year.
And this year, police say the numbers are moving in the right direction.
According to Fresno Police Chief Mindy Casto, theft, including shoplifting and smash-and-grabs, is down 24% compared to last year.
Auto burglaries have dropped between 27% and 30%, and car thefts are down 35%.
Overall violent crime is also trending downward across the city.
“Theft was a huge problem in California, and Fresno was no exception,” says Chief Casto. “Just people walking into stores, those petty thefts, those smash-and-grabs, they create fear for people who witness them or hear about them. Bringing those under control is important, especially during Christmas Presence.”
Chief Casto says Proposition 36 is playing a major role in holding repeat offenders accountable and giving officers more tools to make arrests.
She also emphasized the importance of DUI enforcement during the holidays, noting the department’s commitment to preventing crashes and saving lives.
Small businesses, many of which rely heavily on holiday sales, are a major focus of the operation.
Chief Casto says supporting and protecting them remains a priority for local law enforcement.
Officers also introduced the department’s newest therapy dog, who joined the chief for a close-up moment at the press conference.
Operation Christmas Presence will continue through the holiday season with increased patrols at shopping centers, parking lots and major retail corridors across Fresno.