As the holiday season approaches, the City of Palmdale and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) are excited to introduce Operation Secret Shopper, an innovative initiative that blends holiday cheer with vigilant crime prevention. Meet our special team of deputies, part of Santa’s crew, trading their uniforms for everyday clothing to protect our local retail hotspots. They’re on high alert, ready to catch retail thieves and make sure anyone bold enough to steal doesn’t just end up on the naughty list, but also faces the full force of the law.
“We’re watching you, and we’re prepared to act,” said Mayor Austin Bishop. “By working together, we can create a safer shopping environment and deter criminal activity in our community. Palmdale authorities will not hesitate to prosecute those looking to commit crimes during the holidays or any other time. We have a zero-tolerance policy towards retail theft. Remember, Palmdale prosecutes!”
As part of this operation, plainclothes deputies will seamlessly blend into the holiday shopping crowd. This strategic approach not only makes it difficult for criminals to detect law enforcement but also allows deputies to discreetly observe suspicious behavior and detain suspects.
In addition to undercover activity, the City’s Community Service Officers (CSOs) and LASD are actively monitoring all incidents of retail theft and will relentlessly pursue those who believe they can evade the law. Crime is not tolerated in our community and offenders will face felony charges along with restitution efforts to ensure victims are compensated. This zero-tolerance stance means that every act of theft will be met with swift and decisive action.
As part of this comprehensive approach to retail theft, Palmdale Public Safety and LASD are collaborating with local businesses through the Business Watch program to educate retailers on how to enhance their security measures. This partnership includes sharing theft deterrent strategies and increased uniformed deputy presence within stores, alongside CSOs, as they work to deter thieves and protect our local businesses. This zero-tolerance approach extends to all preventative measures, ensuring our businesses are secure.
“The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it’s also an extremely stressful time of year for our local business owners who are battling retail theft that cuts into their livelihood,” said Mayor Pro Tem Richard J. Loa. “The City will not abandon our business owners to face this alone. We want to make it clear that if you think you can steal in Palmdale, think again.”
Shoppers can rest assured knowing that the City and LASD are actively working to keep our community safe. This holiday season, as you shop for gifts and gather with loved ones, know that law enforcement is in your corner, ready to protect you from those who seek to spoil the joy of winter festivities.
To report suspicious activity, please contact LASD at 661/272-2400 or visit www.LASD.org/Palmdale. To join the City’s Business Watch program, please contact Public Safety at 661/267-5234.