Thank you for your interest in the Los Angeles Police Department. The following is the monthly update for December. I hope you find the information useful. I encourage you to continue to visit our Web site at www.LAPDOnline.org as it has grown to over 6,000 pages since its inception in 1998. CHIEF OF POLICE COMMUNITY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Preparations are now being made for the Annual Community Holiday Celebration taking place this year on December 16, at the Downtown Marriott Hotel. We had an outstanding turn out last year with over 300 people in attendance. This year we are planning for 500 attendees. The price per ticket is $45 and includes dinner, a holiday portrait, an artist's caricature, and self-parking. The evening will also feature live music, entertainment and dancing. The social hour begins at 5:30 p.m. with dinner served at 7:00 p.m. If you would like to join us in celebrating the season, please contact the Public Affairs Unit at (213) 485-3281 for ticket information. I hope to see you there. DECEMBER SAFETY TIPS HOLIDAY SAFETY The Los Angeles Police Department wants everyone to have a secure and happy holiday season by taking a minute from the rush to read and apply the following Holiday crime prevention measures. While Shopping - * Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings. Avoid shopping after dark or alone; * Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Pay for purchases with a check or credit card; If you must carry cash, keep it in your front pocket; * Be extra careful if you carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, and on rapid transit systems; * Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps; and * Do not leave packages on the seat of your car. This creates an unnecessary temptation for thieves. At Home - * Be extra cautious about locking doors and windows when you leave the house; * When leaving home for an extended time, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail; * Indoor and outdoor lights should be on an automatic timer. Leave a radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied; * Large displays of holiday gifts should not be visible through the windows and doors; * Be aware that criminals sometimes pose as couriers delivering gifts; and * It is not uncommon for criminals to solicit donations door-to-door for charitable causes although no charity is involved. Ask for their identification, and find out how the donated funds will be used. If you are not satisfied, do not donate. At Parties and Events - * Find alternative transportation for intoxicated guests. * Arrange for a designated driver who will not drink at all; and * Never drink and drive. On behalf of the men and women of the Los Angeles Police Department, I wish you a happy and safe holiday season with many blessings for the New Year. BERNARD C. PARKS CHIEF OF POLICE