Anniston, Alabama has witnessed a disturbing incident as surveillance video reveals a woman being pushed into her car and robbed on West 17th Street. This event serves as a stark reminder of the need for heightened awareness during the holiday season. Chief Nick Bowles emphasizes the importance of trusting one's instincts and remaining vigilant at all times.
Stay Alert! Protect Your Belongings This Holiday Season
Unloading Items and the Robbery
The video shows the woman carefully placing a PlayStation 5 on top of her car as she begins to unload her items. It was a seemingly ordinary moment until a criminal took advantage of the situation and swiftly shoved her inside the car. The PlayStation 5, an item of value, was then stolen by the criminal. This incident highlights the vulnerability of individuals even in their own neighborhoods.People should always be cautious when leaving items in plain sight. As Chief Bowles points out, criminals often look for opportunities to take advantage of such situations. In this case, the criminal knew that the PlayStation was inside the car and waited for the right moment to strike.Holiday Season Safety Tips
During the holiday season, it is especially crucial to remain on high alert, not just in public places but also at one's own home. Bowles advises that even when pulling up to one's house, if something doesn't seem right or look right, one should have a mindset of being aware of their surroundings at all times. This includes hiding gifts or purses in the trunk if it is not possible to take them inside a store. Parking in well-lit areas also provides an added layer of safety.If drivers notice something suspicious, they should be cautious and move to another location. By taking these simple precautions, individuals can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.Encouraging Reporting
Anyone who recognizes the criminal in the newly released surveillance video is urged to come forward. Chief Bowles poses a powerful question: "For people to think about if this was your mother, this was your sister, this was your wife, how would you feel if this was done to them?" This emotional appeal encourages community members to play an active role in helping to bring the criminal to justice.Anniston Police can be contacted at 256-240-4000. The community can also report tips anonymously to Central Alabama Crime Stoppers at 334-215-7867 or 215stop.com. By working together, the community can make their neighborhoods safer.Get news alerts in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here. Stay informed and stay safe this holiday season.Copyright 2024 WBRC. All rights reserved.READ MORE