New Westminster police are warning businesses and residents about the potential for pickpocketing.
The warning relates to incidents of pickpocketing from jackets placed on coat racks near the entrance to service-based businesses, including hair and nail salons.
According to the police department, suspects enter a business where jackets have been placed on coat racks near the entrance and search customers’ jacket pockets for items like wallets and phones.
“Now that we’re entering coat season, we encourage businesses to consider moving their coat racks further inside their premises,” NWPD Sgt. Andrew Leaver said in a news release. “Additionally, we’d like to remind residents to keep their valuables with them, rather than leaving them in jacket pockets.”
The New Westminster Police Department recommends that businesses educate their staff about this tactic and be alert for suspicious activity.
Staff at local businesses are encouraged to report thefts by calling 604-525-5411, or 911 if they witness a theft in progress.
