Encinitas Ramps Up Police Patrols
The San Diego County Sheriff's Department is increasing foot patrols and DUI enforcement in Encinitas. The move is aimed at improving public safety and reducing crime through higher visibility in the community.
The increased patrols come as Encinitas experiences a mixed set of crime trends. While overall property crimes have seen a significant decrease, crimes against persons, including assaults, have been on the rise. In the first nine months of 2025, property crimes in Encinitas dropped by 24%, with burglaries falling by 30% compared to the same period in the previous year. This success is partly attributed to extra foot patrols and a greater law enforcement presence in retail areas. However, crimes against persons, such as assaults, rose by 22% in 2024 compared to 2023. Law enforcement officials have noted that a portion of the burglaries earlier in the year were linked to the activity of a South American theft group that targeted several cities in Southern California. In response, the San Diego County Sheriff's Department increased its proactive measures and coordination with residents. The focus on DUI enforcement has also intensified, leading to an 18% increase in DUI arrests in the third quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Two new deputies have been added to the force specifically to help identify impaired drivers. Captain Shane Watts of the North Coastal Sheriff's Station has emphasized a more proactive approach from his deputies. This shift is reflected in a 67% increase in deputy-initiated activities, rising from 15,964 to 26,622 in 2025, even as overall arrests are down 4%. Enforcement has also targeted illegal alcohol sales to minors, with operations resulting in several arrests. In one type of operation, minors under law enforcement supervision attempted to purchase alcohol, and in another, they asked adults to buy it for them.
