NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Multiple law enforcement agencies have started conducting anti-retail theft operations this holiday season.
Some of those agencies include including the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD), the Franklin Police Department (FPD), and the Mt. Juliet Police Department (MJPD). All agencies have warned that anyone caught stealing from stores or breaking into cars will be arrested and prosecuted.
"We want the criminals to know that if you come to Franklin and you commit this type of criminal activity, number one there is a high probability that you will get caught," FPD public affairs officer, Ryan Schuman, said. "And number two we want them to know that they will be dealt with harshly."
With shoplifting cases up by 20% this year in Mt. Juliet, the MJPD said mobile surveillance towers, increased patrol and more undercover officers will be deployed as part of "Operation Safe Shopper."
"This year, it's a little bit more involved than it has been in previous years," MJPD deputy chief Tyler Chandler told News 2. "We've totally directed one of our undercover units to the shopping areas. That has not typically been done before."
The MNPD said they would monitor the Tanger Outlets, Nashville West Shopping Center, Opry Mills Mall and the Mall at Green Hills. Officers added that they would work closely with mall security. Around 10 to 12 detectives are dedicated specifically to their organized retail crime unit.
"We do a lot of information sharing with the stores to make sure they're aware of some of the people who may frequent the business,” MNPD lieutenant for the South Precinct, Michael Warren, said.
The department is also working to identify multiple suspected shoplifters, including this man, who was accused of stealing an e-bike from Target on Oct. 20 on Gallatin Pike North.
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Detectives are also looking for this man, who they believe stole items from Target.
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The MNPD said this woman at Ulta Beauty in Bellevue was caught reportedly taking hundreds of dollars' worth of merchandise with an accomplice.
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MNPD officers added that they would monitoring traffic flow near Opry Mills Mall.
"Infrastructure in that area is not designed for that much traffic all at once so give yourself extra time and be patient with the traffic,” MNPD Commander for the Hermitage Precinct, Ken Walburn, said.
Authorities advised shoppers to park safely, keep an eye on valuables, and report anything suspicious to nearby officers.
