At least one police department in California is responding to the possible lapse in food stamp benefits by stepping up patrols around grocery stores to prevent theft and unrest.

Republicans and Democrats have been blaming each other as the government shutdown enters its fifth week, but the rhetoric had worsened as the threat to cut the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program grows closer. About 5.5 million people in California depend on SNAP food welfare.

'These increased patrols are not in response to any specific incident, but are a preventive measure to maintain public safety, deter theft, and reassure the community.'

The Barstow Police Dept. posted the statement on their official Facebook page Tuesday.

"We understand that these circumstances may cause additional stress for

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