Seattle Police promise more officers on streets for holiday shopping
Nov 13, 2012, 12:59 PM | Updated: 9:27 pm
In an effort to keep shoppers and families enjoying the festivities safe, the City of Seattle is stepping up its patrols downtown this holiday season. (AP Photo)
(AP Photo)
In an effort to keep shoppers and families enjoying the festivities safe, the City of Seattle is stepping up its patrols downtown this holiday season.
Seattle Police Captain James Dermody said they’ll focus on areas between 3rd and 7th Avenues and Union to Olive Streets as well, as select locations within Pioneer Square.
The extra patrols begin the day after Thanksgiving and end the day after Christmas, Monday-Friday from 3pm-10pm and Saturday/Sunday/Holidays 1pm-10pm.
Dermody said criminal behavior means there is a lack of guardians, both formal and informal.
three things need to happen for criminal behavior: a suitable target, a motivated target, and a lack of guardians, both formal and informal.
“We’re the formal guardians and the community (are the) informal,” he said.
Mayor Mike McGinn touted healthy growth in retail sales over the last two years and said its helped allow the city to make new investments, namely in hiring more officers.
The Downtown Seattle Association is pleased with the extra patrols for the shopping season.
“Downtown is a place where families, visitors, residents and everyone who enjoys downtown can feel comfortable and welcome,” said Downtown Seattle Association Director Kate Joncas.
