CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- Grinches, be gone. That’s the message Salisbury Police is sending wannabe thieves this holiday season with their Operation Santa Patrol. Because officers say they see an uptick in shoplifters and car break-ins during the season, they're deploying a drone in the downtown core and near big box stores as a deterrent.

  • According to the National Retail Federation, retailers lose an average of $770 million for every $1 billion they make due to retail crime.
  • Many people said having this extra layer of protection is great for shoppers and stores alike.
  • Other Santa Patrol methods include undercover officers and loading up "bait" cars with fake merchandise.

"[It's] being viewed live by an assistant with the drone pilot. The video made available for anyone investigating any crimes captured," said Sgt. Travis Shulenburger with Criminal Investigations. 

Meredith Little of 3 Jem's Boutique explained about loss prevention that's happened in the past, "A little bit of everything. Small jewelry is easy, even clothes that come in and out of the dressing room."

According to the National Retail Federation, retailers lose an average of $770 million for every $1 billion they make due to retail crime.

While virtually every business has a sophisticated surveillance system, many people said having this extra layer of protection is great for shoppers and stores alike.

"I would think it would be a huge relief to our customers to know that kind of police presence is out there watching your cars and street and making sure you get to your car safely," added Pam Coffield of Stitchin' Post Gifts. 

Other Santa Patrol methods include undercover officers and loading up "bait" cars with fake merchandise. Shifts are 12 hours, 7 days a week. SPD's goal is to drop the crime rate by 15 percent this season.