CMPD Issues Tips For A Safe Black Friday 2021

CHARLOTTE, NC — Black Friday 2021 in Charlotte will be safe if the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has its way after planning in advance for a busy year.

"Black Friday is historically busy and chaotic especially on the retail front," said CMPD Lt. Dondi Pogue.

"We have two major malls here in CMPD's jurisdiction, South Park Mall and North Lake Mall, we will have extra patrols focusing on those areas. Everywhere that has retail has beefed up their security with secondary employment, our on-duty staffing has been increased, they will have crime reduction units out there, bike patrols everywhere out there ensuring officers are visible and can respond to areas in minimal time."

Live in Charlotte? Click here to subscribe to our free breaking news alerts delivered to your inbox and mobile devices. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and download our free mobile app on Android or iPhone.

Lt. Pogue says customers can help prevent theft by making sure their cars are locked, but also hiding any purchases in their car and not leaving them in plain sight.

"If you go from store to store, put it in the trunk to where it's not visible," said Lt. Pogue.

He also recommends to ask a neighbor to pick up your mail and any packages if you're traveling out of town so thieves don't see an easy target.

"Make sure your home is well lit...leave several lights on timers so people won't know you aren't home," he added.

"Make sure your home alarm and doorbells are activated and functioning and don't leave your garage door rolled up," said Lt. Pogue.

Of course, this is the time of year for porch pirates.

"When you are having things delivered for your convenience, it presents opportunities for them to victimize you," said Lt. Pogue. He asks that people try to get packages out of plain sight as soon as possible and to consider using doorbell cameras to see any potential issues.