Continuing efforts to keep San Diego safe, the San Diego Police Department (SDPD) recently conducted its annual operation in the College Area to ensure public safety.

Each new school year traditionally brings an increase in pedestrian and vehicle traffic, large gatherings and calls for police services throughout the College Area. In previous years, officers have responded to traffic collisions, alcohol and drug-related violations, assaults, and vandalism, among other crimes.

Taking a proactive approach, SDPD conducted an enhanced public-safety operation, while collaborating with San Diego State University Police, during evening and overnight hours from Aug. 19, 2026, through Sept. 12, 2026.

During the multi-weekend enforcement operation, officers made 40 felony arrests, nine misdemeanor arrests, and recovered four firearms. Throughout the initiative, personnel addressed nearly 150 calls for service, including party calls. The operation also yielded four driving-under-the-influence (DUI) charges.

Notably, during a traffic stop, officers apprehended a man who was wanted on an outstanding warrant for vehicle theft. During the investigation, officers found approximately 35 grams of a crystalline substance and roughly $45,000 in cash, leading to additional charges for the sale and transportation of controlled substances.

In another incident, undercover officers witnessed an adult man reportedly gathering with young individuals for a party in a motel. Upon entry, officers detained the man and recovered 11 juveniles inside the room. There was evidence of underage drinking and nitrous oxide use, resulting in felony and misdemeanor arrests and multiple protective detention reports.

A third notable incident occurred during a traffic stop when a woman was found to have five active misdemeanor warrants for her arrest. She was also in possession of pepper spray, a switch blade, controlled substance, controlled substance paraphernalia, and over 70 pills without a prescription.

This operation would not have been possible without the work of SDPD’s Eastern Division and San Diego State University Police. Their actions underscore the ongoing commitment of area law enforcement to keeping San Diego one of America’s safest big cities.