Undercover cops dressed as Santa and an elf captured suspected carjackers in California on Friday.
The cops were part of an operation by the Riverside Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit called “Santa’s Intervention,” which aims to curb retail theft during the holiday season.
“We worked inside the store, identified shoplifters and when they split the scene, Santa was there to take them into custody,” said detective Paul Miranda.
While working undercover at Canyon Springs Shopping Center on Thursday, the cops spotted three men allegedly trying to steal a white Honda CR-V in a parking lot.
“When I looked over my shoulder I saw Santa running by me going after the second subject,” Miranda said.
The ordeal was captured on video, and shows the officer dressed as Santa tackling a suspect on the ground while the office in the elf costume arrested another at gunpoint.
“Get him, Santa,” one person who filmed the scene said.
One of the suspects was arrested for possession of illegal drugs and resisting arrest, while the other was later released.
The third suspect managed to drive off in the stolen Honda, but was later identified and wanted for car theft.
The car was later found abandoned in an unspecified location.
“They were apologetic and Santa is currently deciding whether they stay on the naughty list,” Miranda said.
The police captured three other shoplifters.
“Our Property Crimes Unit will continue with proactive enforcement operations in its continued mission to prevent and decrease criminal activity in our communities,” police said in a statement.