Saratoga News

City, sheriff's dept. to beef up Halloween night patrol

By Michelle Alaimo

The city of Saratoga and the Santa Clara County Sheriff's Department have come together to ensure that this year's Friday night Halloween is a safe one.

Both the city and Sheriff's Department are concerned about the safety of children and residents, said a letter from the department to Saratoga schools parents. Interim City Manager Larry Perlin said there is a general concern that all schools could be targets of vandalism.

The letter also stated that the sheriff's office will "be taking an aggressive approach to youth involved in vandalism."

Capt. Robert Wilson of the Westside Substation gave details of the letter during a September joint City Council and Saratoga Union School District board meeting. He added that the department is concerned that since Halloween is on a Friday night this year, children might be staying out later, which could lead to problems such as vandalism.

According to the Sheriff's Department, Saratoga has had trouble-free Halloweens for the past five years, in part due to more law-enforcement resources available on Halloween night. This is Sheriff's deputies have expanded patrols on Halloween night to help ensure safety after extensive damage in 1991 to both public and private properties by large crowds of youths near Argonaut School.

Saratoga Deputy Ted Atlas said the department is not trying to take the fun out of Halloween but is trying to make it a safe night. "Halloween is for going out and having a good time," said Atlas, Saratoga schools resource officer.

A command post will be set up at Argonaut school where deputies will give out candy to children. The school will also serve as a resting place for those who need it, Lt. William Slack said. Atlas added that kids who are brought to the command post by a deputy will not be released until their parents come to get them.

In the letter to parents, Wilson, states; "We will be arresting and prosecuting any youth caught damaging property. This will include restitution for damages."

Children are encouraged not to travel unchaperoned in large groups on Halloween. Slack said children should walk in well-lighted areas, with their parents, so that cars coming down the street can see them.

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