Shoppers beware on Black Friday

McALLEN - Shoppers scrambling to find discounted gifts and other goodies can become careless and vulnerable to theft over the holiday season - especially in places as jam-packed as shopping centers.

This week's Black Friday promises a plethora of post-Thanksgiving sales, with stores like Toys "R" Us offering up to 50 percent more early morning deals than a year ago, and law enforcement agencies and security personnel want to ensure eager bargain hunters use caution and don't make it easy for thieves on the prowl.

"People need to be aware of their surroundings," said Sgt. Joel Morales, a McAllen police spokesman. "You should never leave anything of value in the passenger seat like jewelry, sunglasses, purses or suitcases."

Morales said many thieves gather at large retail venues - like the Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets in Mercedes - to exploit shoppers who gather in massive crowds. Because shoppers are in a relaxed atmosphere, it is typically easier for thieves to steal from them.

"They're in the holiday mood," Morales said of the average shopper. "They leave their guard down."

While shopping, women should not put their purses down anywhere, said Isabela Rodriguez, a marketing director for La Plaza Mall.

Shoppers should also show discretion if carrying a large sums of cash.

Many people tend to park farther away from businesses because of limited parking, which tends to make them attractive targets for thieves.

"At night, if you can't park close to the store, park near a light," Morales said. "If you think someone is following you, ask an officer to escort you (to your vehicle). ... And always report suspicious activity."