The San Diego Police Department is expanding its downtown public safety crackdown to the area surrounding the Central Library with "Operation Overdue," following a string of violent incidents including multiple stabbings and a murder in July.

The initiative, announced Sept. 18, builds on Operation Last Call in the Gaslamp Quarter, which since its Aug. 28 launch has produced 76 arrests, 102 citations, and the recovery of five firearms during weekend patrols.

"Following our successful efforts with Operation Last Call in the Gaslamp, we are bringing that same zero tolerance approach to the Central Library with Operation Overdue," Police Chief Scott Wahl said. "We've heard from staff, students and families that they do not feel safe, and we're putting an end to that today."

SDPD's Neighborhood Policing Division and Central Division will deploy uniformed walking patrols around the library to target open-air drug activity, alcohol consumption, theft, trespassing, and violence. The City's Environmental Services Department will also increase sidewalk cleaning in the area to address human waste, drug paraphernalia, and similar debris over the next four weeks.

"Downtown residents deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods, and the concerns surrounding the Central Library demand a stronger response," said Councilmember Stephen Whitburn, who represents the area. "As a Downtown resident, I share these concerns."

Library Director Misty Jones said the library "will continue to be a place for all" but added that "welcoming everyone does not mean accepting illegal or unsafe behavior." The Central Library is also exploring additional lighting around the building to deter nighttime illegal activity.

The operation comes after library staff, community members, and a nearby school flagged open drug and alcohol activity, assaults, and other criminal behavior from those frequenting the area around the East Village library.