‘We will hold you accountable.’ Fresno police chief’s warning to holiday crooks

Fresno-area law enforcement agencies started the 24th year of Operation Christmas Presence on Wednesday with a vow to protect holiday shoppers and be vigilant against the criminals who might prey on them.

Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama, speaking at a news conference at the River Park shopping center, was quick to make note of the crime trend in the Bay Area, where gangs of looters have swarmed pricey retailers while making off with thousands of dollars of merchandise.

“We will not tolerate that here,” he said. “We are ready to go, and will hold you accountable.”

The operation includes police officers, California Highway Patrol officers and Fresno County Sheriff’s deputies.

Undercover officers, bicycle officers, and motorcycle officers also will take part in the operation, along with sheriff’s gang deputies and deputies on horseback.

Shoppers were cautioned to be alert, go with a friend to stores, whenever possible, and be aware of their surroundings.

This story was originally published November 24, 2021 at 12:46 PM.