The Bellevue Police Department announced today the agency will launch a six-week “Stop the Lift” holiday campaign in an effort to raise awareness about retail and porch theft incidents across the city.
In its fifth annual emphasis, Bellevue Officers will partner with retail stores in the area to deter and reduce shoplifting incidents from occurring. The “Stop the Lift” campaign includes data-informed, high visibility patrols in and around Bellevue’s retail establishments, criminal enforcement when shoplifting is reported to law enforcement, and crime prevention messaging on social media. The campaign provides Bellevue Police and businesses a multi-prong approach toward retail theft prevention and response during the holiday season.
The holiday campaign is an example of how the department deploys the P.I.E. (Prevention, Intervention, Enforcement) philosophy in its patrols and mission to keep the Bellevue community safe.
Last year’s “Stop the Lift” holiday campaign was a success for both Bellevue Police and the community. According to the department’s Crime Analysis Unit, officers made 170 shoplifting arrests and investigated 235 shoplifting incidents during the holiday season. About 72% of all shoplifting incidents during “Stop the Lift” resulted in an arrest.
“Shoplifting is the most common crime in Bellevue, but this police department is committed to collaborate with the community and local businesses in making sure individuals who attempt to shoplift or steal merchandise are held accountable,” said Wendell Shirley, Bellevue Police Chief.
Bellevue Police are seeing a new retail theft trend: fewer shoplifting incidents but more arrests. From January to September, year-over-year shoplifting incidents decreased 2% (937 incidents) in 2026 compared to incidents in 2025 (956 incidents). However, officers made 658 arrests (70% arrest rate) in 2026 compared to 618 (65% arrest rate) in 2025, marking a 6% increase in shoplifting arrests. Shoplifting incidents continue to make up 44% of all larceny crimes in Bellevue.
Law enforcement is also asking Bellevue community members to get involved with the “Stop the Lift” campaign. Community members should take these simple steps to protect themselves and their families while shopping in public spaces:
- Contact store management if you witness a theft occurring (do not intervene)
- Never leave packages visible in your vehicle
- Do not leave bags, purses, or wallets unattended
For residents choosing to purchase gifts online, please follow these simple crime prevention tips:
- Install a visible camera where packages are delivered
- Use a porch lock box or offsite package pick-up location
- Provide conceal instructions for delivery drivers
- Ask for a signature requirement for deliveries
- Retrieve your deliveries as soon as possible
Bellevue Police ask community members to see something, say something. Residents are encouraged to call 911 if they witness a suspect attempting to steal from a business or taking a box from a neighbor’s residence.
