The Montgomery County Department of Police – Third District (Silver Spring) Holiday Crime Suppression Task Force began its seasonal enforcement initiative on December 1. The task force is focused on reducing theft, enhancing safety in retail areas, and conducting proactive enforcement in the Third District (Silver Spring) during the holiday season. 

Since the task force's beginning, officers have made two handgun arrests. On the second day of the initiative, officers attempted to arrest a suspect for fare evasion at the Silver Spring Metro. After a brief foot pursuit, the suspect was taken into custody and found to be in possession of a loaded handgun. He was additionally charged with firearm possession by a convicted felon. Another task force officer conducted a traffic stop for speeding and observed a loaded handgun in the driver’s handbag; the driver was subsequently arrested. 

During the first week of the initiative, officers also investigated five theft-related incidents and five drug-related offenses. Officers conducted 16 traffic stops, made three criminal arrests, issued six criminal citations, 11 civil citations, and served two warrants. One notable arrest involved identifying and apprehending a repeat shoplifter who, to date, is responsible for stealing approximately $3,700 in merchandise. 

The Third District Holiday Crime Suppression Task Force will continue its efforts throughout the holiday season. 

It should be noted that the arrests and enforcement actions listed above reflect only those made by the task force. Additional arrests made by patrol officers during this period are not included in these totals.