To discourage crimes of opportunity during the holiday season, the Sarasota Police Department will be increasing patrols throughout the City of Sarasota, specifically in the north district, where there has been an increase in violent crime since January 1, 2018. 

Officers will be using high visibility to deter crime and help residents and visitors feel safe with the additional presence of Officers.  Residents and visitors can expect to see additional Officers conducting traffic stops and conducting proactive engagement within the community. 

As the holidays continue, the Sarasota Police Department wants to share safety tips to keep you, your family and property safe:

AT HOME:

• Always lock and secure doors, windows and sliding doors, even when you’re home.

• Never keep valuables or gifts in view from windows.

• If someone knocks at your door and you don’t recognize them, you don’t have to open the door.

SHOPPING:

• Remain vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

• Park in well-lit areas, always remove firearms and valuables from your car and lock your car.

• Carry your purse or wallet close to you.  Put them inside a coat or front pants pocket.

TRAVELING:

• Ask to have mail and newspaper delivery stopped.  Piles of mail and newspapers show no one is home.

• As a trusted neighbor or friend to watch your home.

• Set outside lights and radios and televisions inside on a times so it appears someone is home.

“Our commitment is to provide quality service to our community through proactive community policing,” said Chief Bernadette DiPino.  “In keeping with the holiday spirit, I’m asking our community to be kind to one another and our Officers, especially during interaction with any member of the Sarasota Police Department.”

Due to Officer safety, the Sarasota Police Department cannot share how many additional Officers will be on patrol, but residents and visitors, through partnership policing, are encouraged to call law enforcement if they see or hear something suspicious or out of the ordinary.

Breakdown of Violent Crime Numbers by District and Year are below.  Violent crimes include robbery, aggravated assault, rape, murder and aggravated battery.  A patrol zone map can be found at www.sarasotapd.org/divisions/patrol-division

2018:

2017:

Breakdown of Property Crime Numbers by District and Year are below.  Property crimes include thefts, burglaries and auto thefts. 

2018:

2017:

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