Grinch Busters!
Today's Crime Stoppers of Southwest Idaho report is brought to you by Boise Solar. Find out how to make the switch to solar at boisesolar.org
Criminals are also “shopping” during the holidays, so stay alert when rushing from store to store.
Last year I was out shopping on a Sunday morning around 11 a.m. and decided to grab some Panda Express for lunch before I headed into the JC Penny store in Nampa. I was sitting in the parking lot enjoying my Mushroom Chicken and I noticed a man slinking around peeking in car windows and trying to open the door handles of various cars! I was shocked to see him doing that in broad daylight in the the middle of the day! I called 911 and told the dispatcher what I was seeing but the culprit was able to slip away before the police arrived.
The Police urge you to follow these safety tips, regardless of where you shop, to keep your shopping trip and online orders safe from the “Grinches” that are lurking out there!
Park in well-lit areas close to your destination.
Be mindful of your surroundings and the things you’re carrying. Don’t overload yourself with packages or become distracted by your cell phone.
If you are shopping with children, make a plan in case you are separated from each other. Select a central meeting place and teach them to ask store personnel or security for help if they need it.
Pick restrooms in well-lit and well-trafficked areas. Always accompany children to the restroom.
Always know where the closest exit is located in case of fire or another emergency.
Carry you purse close to your body or your wallet inside a coat or front pocket. Don’t leave your purse sitting your shopping cart.
Carry only the cash or credit cards you will need on a that specific shopping trip. Don’t display large amounts of cash.
Wait until asked before taking out your credit card or checkbook. An enterprising thief would love to shoulder surf to get your account information.
Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle. Check the back seat before getting in.
Do not leave packages visible in your car windows. Lock them in the trunk or take them directly home.
To keep yourself, your family, and others healthy this holiday season, don’t forgot to wear your mask while shopping, social distance in aisles and register lines, and wash/sanitize your hands as you are coming and going from stores.
Don’t forget many stores offer online shopping, free shipping, and contactless pick up so customer can avoid the crowds. When ordering online leave instructions about where you would like packages left at your home or arrange to have them delivered to a work address. Also reach out to your neighbors and help keep an eye out for each other’s deliveries and arrange to retrieve them from each other’s porches and keep them safe until you arrive home.
If you have any information about a crime you can remain anonymous and earn a reward of up to $1000.00 if your tip leads to a felony arrest. Contact Crime Stoppers of Southwest Idaho:
1. Leave a web tip at 343COPS.COM
2. Use their new FREE app, P3 Tips.You can get the app on ITunes or in the Google Play Store by typing “P3 Tips” in the search bar.
3. Call 208-343-COPS (2677)