HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. — Several law enforcement agencies across the Bay Area out in full force this weekend to help keep shoppers and businesses safe.
While shoppers are searching for the best deals this weekend, deputies are also busy patrolling parking lots on bikes and walking through stores.
Law enforcement wants thieves to know they’re watching.
"It makes me feel protected and safe," said Melissa Schrader, a shopper.
Deputies say on Thursday a Hernando County woman had her purse swiped from her car at the Walmart on Broad St. in Brooksville as she loaded in groceries.
But the search for the suspects didn’t last long as deputies caught the alleged thieves caught just moments later.
Deputies say there are things you can do while shopping to help protect yourself.
- Lock your car doors
- Don’t leave valuables like purses, wallets, cell phones, or gifts in plain sight
- Don’t carry a lot of cash
- Keep your purse or wallet close to you
- Remember where you parked
- Put away your phones and pay attention to your surroundings
"It helps to just remove the opportunity to commit these crimes of opportunity," said Matt Spooner, a Hernando County Deputy.
Hernando County says they will extra patrol out at shopping areas this weekend and the weekend before Christmas as well.
