Fuquay-Varina police use steady blue lights to deter criminals this holiday season

According to the Fuquay-Varina Police Department, a "steady blue cruise light" will be installed on all patrol vehicles.

The blue lights will appear on both sides of the light bar on the roof of the car, and the lights won't flash or blink. The lights will be on between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m.

"The purpose of using the blue cruise lights is to provide more of a presence, increase police visibility and deter criminal activity in our community," a press release reads.

Police Chief Brandon Medina said, “The safety of our citizens and visitors during the evening hours and holiday shopping season is our highest priority ... the implementation of the blue cruise lights is an example of a proactive measure."

Officers will continue use flashing lights and sirens during traffic stops or emergencies.

At least three North Carolina police departments already use blue cruise lights, including Wilmington, and the practice is becoming more common across the country.

“As a law enforcement agency, it is our duty to do everything we can to deter crime and if this proactive measure mitigates one incident, then we will call this measure a success,” said Medina.

The new program comes as holiday shoppers in the state are concerned about the recent gun violence at shopping areas.

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