The Tampa Police Department is kicking off its annual Secret Santa Holiday Operation, which aims to prevent theft and keep shoppers safe this holiday season.
The Department will have an increased presence at WestShore Plaza and International Plaza, both inside and outside.
Officer Scott McClain, a member of the bicycle and operation response unit, says that shoppers need to pay extra attention this time of year.
"It’s an environment that creates more targets for criminals, so we try to minimize the opportunity as much as we possibly can through both patrol and education," McClain says.
Officers will be keeping an eye out for suspicious activity as well as reminding guests to lock their doors, and keep valuables out of plain sight.
The operation runs Thanksgiving week through January 1.
Police are reminding shoppers to call them if they see something unusual or out of place.
