Dec 2, 2008 6:26 am US/Eastern
Malls Work To Keep Shoppers Safe Over The Holidays
TOWSON, Md. (WJZ) ―
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A rash of robberies at Arundel Mills has many holiday shoppers thinking about their safety.
A rash of robberies at Arundel Mills has many holiday shoppers thinking about their safety. This season, malls across the region are spending extra on security.
Mary Bubala reports there are extra eyes watching you.
A woman leaving Arundel Mills was the fifth person robbed in the parking lot in two months. She was forced to give up her purse to a man who claimed he was armed and jumped in a getaway car. Luckily for police, the victim saw the license plate.
"The suspect in this case, we do have an active warrant and he's also being investigated for possibly involvement in other robberies at this same mall," said Sgt. John Gilmer with Anne Arundel County Police.
Police are having a hard time finding Raul Ramos-Guido, saying his relatives aren't cooperating.
Dozens of similar crimes are being reported at almost every major shopping mall in the Baltimore region each year, according to crime data
WJZ analyzed in a recent investigation.
That fact has some shoppers thinking about their safety.
"Before 8 o'clock, it's pretty safe. At night, not so much," said Domi Jackson.
Since most mall crimes against people happen in parking lots, shoppers are urged to be aware of their surroundings. Always keep your keys in your hand so you're not fumbling around at your door giving criminals an opportunity to strike.
Towson Town Center has one of the most advanced mall security systems with more than 200 cameras.
"We have our contingent of security, mobile patrols in the garage and walking patrols in here," said the mall's general manager, Chuck Crerand.
At many malls, security guards will walk you to your car if asked.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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