FORT SMITH - Chief Nathaniel Clark has initiated a new operation to ensure the citizens of Fort Smith are safe and feel secure while they shop. In November and December, during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, the number of thefts is expected to rise.
“Operation Inside Out” began on Thursday, November 23 and will end sometime before the first of the New Year. The focus of “Operation Inside Out” is to increase police presence around high-traffic commercial areas by utilizing members of the Criminal Investigations, Service, and Administrative Divisions. Data provided by the department’s crime analyst will be used to identify areas to focus covert patrols to deter property crimes from occurring.
Members of the department routinely assigned to the Criminal Investigations, Service, and
Administrative Divisions will be assigned specific, high-traffic commercial areas to “patrol” in a coordinated effort to reduce property crimes.
The Fort Smith Police Department would like to offer the following safety tips for citizens while out shopping.
1. Place all valuables out of site or in the trunk of your vehicle.
2. Shop with a group if possible. There is safety in numbers.
3. Make sure that your doors are locked.
4. Park in a well lit area if shopping at night.
5. Be aware of your surroundings when entering and exiting your vehicle.