Amid the red and green holiday decorations downtown, merchantsand customers are also seeing a little more blue.

Brookhaven Police Chief Pap Henderson said police officers beganwalking downtown beats about a week and a half ago in an effort toincrease law enforcement visibility during the holidays. The policetradition usually begins several weeks before Christmas as morepeople are out and about in the downtown area.

“It’s real successful. The business people are real pleased withit,” Henderson said of the patrol program.

Several business owners echoed the chief’s sentimentsMonday.

“I think it’s a great service,” said Marvin Lowery, manager of alocal pawn shop. “It’s like the old system where people see and getto know officers rather than just see a car go by.”

Cathy Brown, owner of a downtown gift shop, was appreciative ofthe added police attention. She said officers had been by severaltimes to talk and check on the store.

“It makes you feel real good,” Brown said.

During the foot patrols, officers visit with merchants, watchfor possible shoplifting and check parking regulations. In additionto downtown, Henderson said the department is working to increasepatrol visibility in other shopping areas and residential areas aswell.

“We’re trying to deter any kind of crime that can occur duringthe holidays,” Henderson said.

As part of the added patrol effort, Henderson said officers arescheduled to be downtown during the day. He said that wouldcontinue as Christmas approaches.

“Unless there’s a big emergency somewhere else, we’ll havesomeone down there throughout the holidays,” Henderson said.

The chief indicated the downtown patrols are an another effortby law enforcement to ensure safe shopping environment formerchants and customers.

“It’s been real good and we’re glad to be able to do it,”Henderson said.