Merseyside Police launch Operation Shepherd to help keep communities safe over Christmas

Merseyside Police has launched Operation Shepherd, its annual campaign to reduce crime and keep communities safe during the festive period.

You can expect to see more officers out and about from now, through to Christmas and into New Year. This will include uniformed and plain clothes officers, supported by specialist teams including the Dog Section, Mounted Section and Air Support.

A number of teams will be working together to prevent crime and identify those that do commit offences, using every tactic we have available to track the offenders down and put them before the courts.

Whilst on patrol, officers will be speaking to residents and business owners to offer crime prevention advice and tips on how they can keep themselves, their property and premises safe.

We will also continue to support and protect the vulnerable members of our communities.

Chief Inspector Tracie Trubshaw, who is leading the operation, said: 

“We always increase patrols, right across Merseyside, on the run up to Christmas because historically, we have seen a rise in crimes such as burglary, robbery, domestic violence, and drink or drug driving. It’s also normal to see an increased police presence in busy locations including shopping centres, Christmas markets and other popular attractions.

“You’ll see extra officers policing the vibrant night-time economies of the city and busy town centres throughout Merseyside. We also work closely with partners including CCTV operators and door staff, licensees and bar staff to help make sure you feel safe whilst enjoying a night out.

“Our Project Servator deployments will continue, using both uniformed and plain clothes officers who are specially trained to identify individuals who may have criminal intent. These deployments can pop up anywhere at any time, and if you see one, it’s nothing to worry about. Officers will be happy to explain what they are doing and answer any questions you have, so feel free to talk to them and find out how you can help keep people safe.”

Chief Inspector Trubshaw added: “Operation Shepherd is an extensive force-wide operation involving a wide variety of teams, each with their own area of expertise, and they all play a part in keeping our communities safe over the festive period.

“We’re using a movie theme to spread our crime prevention messages so keep an eye out when you’re out and about.”

Look out for each other this Christmas and report crimes or suspicious behaviour to Merseyside Police via @MerPolCC, 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. In an emergency always call 999.

Get the latest Christmas news for Liverpool HERE and visit our calendar to see what’s on across the city region as the countdown continues HERE.