Palm Desert Launches Increased Holiday Patrols

Palm Desert police today announced increased patrols in the city over the holiday season to help prevent thefts.

In addition to the patrols, the department released tips for safe holiday shopping.

Residents should be alert of their surroundings at all times and check for suspicious activity or people loitering before parking and exiting vehicles, said police Sgt. Misty Reynolds.

At night, residents should park in a well-lit area as close to stores as possible, with keys in hand ready to use, she said.

The sergeant said purchases should be locked in a trunk or covered — never left in plain sight inside a car.

Shoppers who become separated from children should notify a store security officer or the store manager and also call police as soon as possible.

Children and pets should never be left unattended in a vehicle, she said.