Theft, murder, attorneys and Happy Holidays Everybody

It's that time of year again where everybody gets into the spirit of buying for the upcoming holidays. The problem is that they aren't the only ones gearing up for a spending spree. You ask a group of defense attorneys what this time of year means and it's usually 'more business' for them in court. What you, as a consumer, must make yourself aware of is how to avoid being a victim, or at least cut down the chances of becoming one, by a lot of defensive shopping tactics. I'll touch upon the major ones which involve parking and wallets.

Parking lots invite criminals because of the vast space and visibility. Yes, visibility for both parties. You can see what appears to be a fellow shopper and they see a potential victim with packages and can see any security vehicles or employees in the area. First and foremost you always want to park as close to the building as possible and nearer to the entrance as well because there will always be people around these areas. A thief does not want to be seen! If you can't park near, which is usually the case the closer you get to the holiday, try to bring another person with you. During these times I always advise, especially women, that you carry some sort of self defense products that will at least allow you to get away from the situation and call for help. There are many types of products available but make sure you check with your local law enforcement agency for restrictions. When all else fails, drop your packages if physically confronted and throw your keys towards the store and run. The confusion will usually upset the thief and foil their attempt to potentially hurt you or possibly abduct you with your own car.

Wallets are a no-brainer. You should all know by now not to carry monetary instruments(cards and cash) in your wallet. Keep them in your front pocket while shopping and moving around people. Do not carry anything that cannot be replaced easily and quickly. Overweight men with tight fitting trousers are a primary target for pickpockets because the pockets will pucker open making access into them easier and less noticeable. Always leave another card at home with some cash, in case you do get robbed of your wallet, to use until replacements are sent out. Handbags! Why oh why do women carry these knapsacks around. Most of what's in them is junk and when they are grabbed you will most likely get hurt. Recently a woman 1 town over from me in Florida was killed when a purse snatcher grabbed her purse strap and yanked it, she yanked back, then fell and hit her head. She died later the same day from a head injury while trying to hold her purse from a thief. This person was later caught and is now charged with homicide, not petty theft. If you do need to carry one just use it for 'crap' that you could care less losing and don't use the Gucci bag this time of year. Yes, I know, it looks classy and chic but it also says "I have money, please target me!". Leave the bulky checkbook at home and use a debit card in it's place if it has to be a checking account purchase. If you have to carry a purse with valuables in it use a bag with a long strap and put it on with the strap diagonally across your chest like a newspaper boys bag, keeping the bag visible in front of you. It may not look chic but it removes opportunity from the thief and they'll move on to someone that has their guard down. Thieves want the easy snatch and run.

When all else fails and you are approached just give them what they want and run away. Live to shop another day!