For Immediate Release

Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2015

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 781-533-9398
Email: john@jgpr.net

Bedford Police Department Increases Patrol Around Shopping Areas During the Holidays

BEDFORD – Chief Robert Bongiorno reports that the Bedford Police Department is once again increasing patrols around popular shopping areas over the next month to prevent crime through Operation P.A.C.E. — Pro-Active Community Enforcement — and is asking that the public report any suspicious activity they see this season.

Operation P.A.C.E., which was first implemented last year, works to curb retail theft and shoplifting, in turn maintaining a high quality of life for residents through enforcement of town laws and bylaws.

“This is a busy time of year for many as we all prepare for the holidays, so we want to ensure that with the increase in people out shopping, everyone is safe and no crimes are committed,” Chief Bongiorno said. “Operation P.A.C.E. is here to let criminals know we are out in the community and will be increasing our patrols. However, while we will be monitoring stores and parking lots, we remind residents to be vigilant when shopping and to not hesitate to report anything out of the ordinary to police.”

Officers and investigators will be present and visible within Bedford’s shopping centers, adding another marked cruiser throughout the day, assigned to patrol, at the plaza on Great Road near Shawsheen Road and the Bedford Marketplace at 160 Great Road. Last year, multiple shoplifters were arrested in these areas thanks to the increased police presence.

Police will be looking to reduce all types of holiday-related crime. This includes breaking and entering into motor vehicles, purse snatching, robbery, and traffic and parking related problems.

Additionally, through Operation P.A.C.E., uniformed officers will be in the community, walking through shopping centers and stores when people are out and about. They will be interacting with the residents with the goal of providing a level of comfort and security. Do not hesitate to reach out to or approach an officer for help if you see something suspicious.

If you have any questions or would like to submit a tip to the Bedford Police Department, you should call 781-275-1212 or email the department at bedfordpolice@police.bedfordma.gov. All tips may remain anonymous.

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