Now that many people have begun their holiday shopping, shoplifting and pick-pocketing are expected to be on the rise.
Detective Captain Mike Goodwin of the New Philadelphia Police Department advises everyone to be especially aware of their surroundings during this time of year.
Goodwin suggests that women take special care about leaving their purses out and opened.
If anyone does become the victim of a shoplifter, Goodwin says that unfortunately the chances of the thief being caught are low even though most stores are equipped with video surveillance.
Goodwin also has advice for retailers during this busy shopping period including watching out for shoppers who try to pay by using counterfeit money or with a stolen credit card.
Goodwin recommends that in addition to being vigilant, people need to remember to be patient since the stores will be a busy place.
