‘Tis the season for holiday shopping, but while you鈥檙e focused on your gift list, police say Grinches are watching you and your car.
With stores packed, Police Officer First Class Chaudlier Shepherd with Prince George鈥檚 County Police says criminals are always looking for ways to strike.
He said shoppers should always be aware of their surroundings because thieves may act before you even reach your car.
鈥淭here are things like pickpocketing. Unfortunately, things like strong-arm robbery, where people will just snatch things and run,鈥� Shepherd said.
That鈥檚 why he recommends parking in well-lit areas and not leaving shopping bags in plain view inside your car.
鈥淚f your car is locked and you don鈥檛 have things visible, usually, they will leave those cars alone,鈥� Shepherd said.
He said thieves look for easy opportunities.
鈥淧ut (purchases) away. Don鈥檛 have them out; because when you do that, it makes it a target for people who are looking and walking through parking lots,鈥� he said.
Other tips he gave include not overloading yourself with bags and not shopping alone.
鈥淪hopping in groups 鈥� people might not think about that,鈥� Shepherd said. 鈥淚f you can have a friend, tag along, family tag along, husband, wife, partner 鈥� whoever it may be 鈥� go with you to the store.鈥�
Shepherd also suggested using a dashcam for extra peace of mind.
鈥淭hat will help you, not only when you鈥檙e shopping, but also on the road,鈥� he said.
And if you鈥檙e making multiple trips, stash purchases in the trunk or cover them with a blanket.
鈥淯se that shade (in your SUV) or even a blanket to hide your items,鈥� Shepherd said.
Police say these steps can help prevent crimes of opportunity during the busy holiday season.
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