Police Thwart Possible Smash-And-Grab At SoCal Mall

SANTA MONICA, CA — A security guard helped stop a possible smash-and-grab robbery attempt at a department store and mall in Santa Monica, according to the Santa Monica Police Department.

"Thanks to the keen observation skills and quick thinking of our downtown security services personnel, a potential “smash/grab” crime was thwarted," Chief Ramon Batista said in a statement.

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The security team member noticed seven vehicles with about 28 people inside them, police said.

The cars were parked in the fire lane in front of Nordstrom, near the 200 block of Broadway, at Santa Monica Place about 5:30 p.m., police said.

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"The advent of recent 'flash mob robberies' in surrounding communities, West Los Angeles and California have placed all public safety and security services personnel on high alert," Batista said.

The security team member radioed for police help and gave vehicle descriptions and license plate information, Batista said.

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"The vehicle’s occupants noticed his behavior, became antagonistic and left the area before officers arrived," Batista said.

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Police urge people to pay attention and look out for one another.

"The quick thinking of security services personnel in this case thwarted a robbery," he added.

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