LIVE OAK, Texas — Live Oak Police Lt. Matt Malone is cracking down on car break-ins at The Forum shopping center. It’s part of the department’s initiative, “Operation Grinch.”

“Somebody sat down and watched [How] the Grinch Stole Christmas with their kids, and the name stuck. We have been doing this since 2009, so this is the 11th year,” said Malone.

During last year’s holiday season operation, the Live Oak Police Department arrested around 20 people stealing from vehicles belonging to shoppers.

“With this program, we have really slowed down and deterred crime,” Malone said.

They take into account certain crime statistics, including what days and times these crimes tend to happen. All of this is more than a job for this police officer.

“When someone commits a criminal act in Live Oak, it’s more than just a crime. It’s something personal,” said Malone.

He’s called the small area of Live Oak home for decades.

“October was my 30th year. I’ve got a few more left in me,” said Malone.

Malone even shops at The Forum. He says the break-ins hit close to home for him.

“Now I think to myself, why would I even want to walk into that store when I can just drive up and they bring it out to me?” Malone joked.

He had a simple tip for everyone hitting the stores this holiday season--lock your doors.

“Probably well over half of the vehicle burglaries that occur, the vehicle isn’t even locked,” said Malone.

That makes you an easy target to thieves.

“They look in a window. They see a purse, they see package. They’re going to check the door. If it’s unlocked, they’re just going to reach in and grab it,” warns Malone.

He said he wants everyone to enjoy being in the Christmas spirit, while shopping for friends and family.

“I guess it sounds kind of cliché, but I just really like helping people. And doing what’s best for the community,” said Malone.

That’s easy to see after spending the afternoon with him.