Milpitas Police Gear Up to Keep Great Mall: The Milpitas Police Department is taking a proactive stance to address the escalating trend of holiday-related crimes at the renowned Great Mall in Milpitas. Over the last three years, reported thefts have witnessed a steady increase10.5% in 2020, 13% in 2021, and a notable 18.5% in the previous year. In response, the police are implementing a comprehensive strategy to manage and mitigate criminal activities during the holiday season.
Police Chief Jared Hernandez underscores the multifaceted nature of crime management, emphasizing that prevention involves not only enforcement but also education and deterrence. The department aims to educate retailers on safety procedures, offering guidance on safeguarding their establishments and reducing vulnerability to theft. Additionally, a heightened police presence, particularly at Great Mall, is part of the strategy to deter criminal activities.
Great Mall, one of the state’s largest indoor shopping outlet centers, draws residents from across the Bay Area during the holiday season. Given its expansive sizenearly 1.4 million square feetthe mall has a designated patrol beat. Four officers are assigned to the mall, with two on continuous patrol. During the holiday season, additional officers are deployed to enhance security.
To cover the costs of extra patrols, the police department will utilize its discretionary overtime allocation, with approximately $385,000 earmarked for overtime and emergency situations. This allocation reflects the department’s commitment to prioritizing public safety during high-traffic periods.
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While crime levels in 2020 were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to a decrease in shopping and retail crime, 2021 saw a gradual return to normal shopping habits. The recent surge in reported thefts underscores the need for proactive measures to maintain a safe shopping environment.
The police’s engagement in organized retail theft operations, including collaborations with the California Highway Patrol, demonstrates their commitment to addressing the root causes of holiday-related crime. The creation of an organized retail theft unit earlier in the year reflects the city’s strategic response to an anticipated rise in such criminal activities.
Officers assigned to Great Mall actively engage with business owners and workers to build relationships and share essential safety information. This includes best practices for organizing store layouts to reduce susceptibility to theft and guidance on identifying suspicious behavior. The police department also places emphasis on educating shoppers about personal safety, encouraging a collective effort to enhance security.
Police Chief Hernandez underscores the effectiveness of a collaborative approach involving law enforcement and the community. He emphasizes the importance of community members reporting incidents and sharing observations to facilitate investigations and maximize safety efforts.
As the holiday season approaches, the Milpitas Police Department’s concerted efforts aim to create a secure and enjoyable shopping experience at Great Mall. By fostering community partnerships, educating stakeholders, and increasing police presence, the department seeks to instill confidence in shoppers and deter criminal activities during this festive period.
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How many police officers are there in Milpitas?
With 110 employees, 86 of whom are sworn, the Milpitas Police Department is a comprehensive service provider. Covering a 14.5 square mile urban area, the department ensures public safety for 71,000 residents.
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At the Milpitas Police Department, our top priority is safeguarding the lives and property of our community. We achieve this by collaborating with our community and delivering top-notch, prompt police services. Our team of professionals is dedicated to ensuring that our community feels safe and secure at all times.