Police Chief Advises Holiday Shoppers to Take Extra Precautions

Toccoa Police Chief Tim Jarrell is reminding holiday shoppers this weekend to take extra precautions.

Many of us will be heading to big box stores today as well as shopping malls.

Others will also be planning a trip to downtown Toccoa Saturday for Small Business Saturday.

Jarrell says when out picking out those holiday gifts, make sure your packages are out of the reach of thieves.

“When people come into Toccoa to do their holiday shopping, we’re asking that they lock their vehicles and leave their packages and valuables out of sight,” Jarrell said. “Lock them in the trunk and don’t leave them in plain view. Most importantly, make sure that their vehicles are locked.”

Jarrell said this time of year is also a prime time for shoplifters.

He says his officers will be out in force during the holidays both on the street and in the stores.

“Our calls regarding shoplifters have increased, as they usually do this time of the year,” he said. “We’ve also increased our foot patrols in those businesses in an effort to be a deterrent.”

Jarrell said his officers will also be joining the Sheriff’s office and the Georgia State Patrol in conducting random checkpoints looking for impaired drivers and seatbelt violations.