COLUMBUS, Ohio — Columbus leaders say they are stepping up security at Easton Town Center as the holiday shopping season gets underway.

Mayor Andrew Ginther said the city wants shoppers to feel safe heading into the busiest time of year.

“We want people to be able to shop with confidence and do it safely, and that's what Operation Sleigh Crime is all about,” Ginther said. "It's going to be a very significant presence and commitment from the city to make sure the holiday season is as safe as possible."

Operation Sleigh Crime will run through Dec. 28 and includes an increased presence of Columbus police. The strategy this year includes enhancing both uniformed and plainclothes personnel and expanding on existing partnerships with private security.

Just a day after the operation launched

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