Tampa Police have turned to social media to educate shoppers during the holiday season on how to avoid becoming crime victims.
Operation "Jingle Bell ROC" is designed to stop the common holiday crimes; car burglaries, car thefts and shoplifting.
“This year on top of everything we’re doing, we’re adding humor to our crime fighting,” said Capt. Reuben Delgado of Tampa Police.
The department hopes that the video and the use of RNC equipment will help cut down on crime and victims.
“Anything that can help someone not be a victim, I’m all for it,” said Officer Gary Felice, who plays the criminal in the video.
The department will be using motorcycles, bicycles and horses to easily maneuver through mall traffic; and bobcats to get around faster in parking lots and roadways.
They’ll also be using mobile cameras purchased through the RNC to watch areas that officers may not be able to see on foot.
“Just the camera platform alone is going to allow us to replace having just an officer or two watch a large area. We’ll be able to cover that area with the camera platform,” said Sgt. Ricardo Ubinas of Tampa Police.