DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Daytona Beach police officers are stepping up patrols as Central Florida kicks off the holiday shopping season.

The chief said officers are scattered throughout the city.

Tim Stanford and his family are regular Black Friday shoppers, who were out shopping for good deal Friday.

He said he not only took notice of the sales, but he noticed the police presence also right away.

"I’ve seen a few more officers on the streets and at the storefronts," Stanford said.

Police Chief Craig Capri said their patrol detail for the holiday season just kicked off, and now eight to 10 officers will be patrolling parking lots at all of the shopping malls.

Their detail includes undercover, traffic, and motor officers.

"We’re out here in force every day and every night making sure than everybody does their business, does their shopping without being harassed … or being a victim of a crime," Capri said.

Capri said police are making their rounds, making sure shoppers are safe. He’s encouraging shoppers to be vigilant as well — that means protecting your purchases for your own safety and security from crooks.