Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone and Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney K. Harrison announced safety measures the department is taking throughout the holiday season in an effort to ensure the safety of Suffolk County residents and visitors.
To protect holiday shoppers, officers and auxiliary police will be increasing patrols in and around business districts and shopping centers throughout the season. Additionally, police will monitor traffic conditions during popular shopping days. The department urges consumers to be alert while shopping, never leave purses/wallets unattended in a cart, shop with a friend, and keep valuables out of sight in your vehicle and lock your car doors.
The department will also perform increased patrol checks at religious institutions during days of significance. Members of the department will meet with religious leaders to discuss appropriate security measures for their congregations.
Keeping Suffolk County roadways safe and free of impaired drivers continues to be a high priority. There will be additional DWI patrols throughout the county during the entire holiday season with an emphasis during Thanksgiving weekend, and the week of Christmas and New Year’s. Officers will take a zero-tolerance approach to anyone who chooses to drive while impaired by drugs or alcohol.
“The Holiday season should be a time filled with joy and loved ones, but we have seen far too many needless tragedies,” said County Executive Steve Bellone. “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.”
“There is no holiday when it comes to public safety,” Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney K. Harrison said. “Our officers will be working around the clock to ensure residents enjoy this festive season. I would like to thank SCPD officers who will be taking time away from their families to safeguard Suffolk County.”
