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Attempted Shopping Center Break-In Deterred

Posted by Eric Nauta on Feb 18, 2020

Vandalism, smash-and-grab robberies and break-ins are common security risks for a shopping center.

Just before 5:00 in the morning, a trained Stealth security operator saw an individual enter the back of a Houston shopping center from the rear fence. He was carrying a large plank of wood. He walked halfway down the sidewalk and stopped in front of one of the storefronts. He took the board and began striking the window of the storefront.

Upon seeing this activity, our security operator sounded the on-site speaker warning and called Houston police. The suspect tossed the board aside and began to run. Within minutes, while the suspect was still near the property, an officer arrived and made an arrest.

The Threat of Break-Ins

It’s not uncommon for thieves to target unmonitored shopping centers, or ones they think are unmonitored. When a pane of glass is the only thing separating a determined criminal and the valuable prize on the other side, that wrongdoer will try just about anything to break it.

In addition to paying for damaged property and stolen merchandise, break-ins at shopping centers can result in higher vacancy rates and reputational damage that may inversely affect property values.

Help Deter Criminal Activity with Live Video Monitoring

Live video monitoring can help protect shopping and retail centers from theft, vandalism, damage and liability. Trained security operators, watching live cameras, can act immediately if they see any suspicious activity. This often results in quicker police response times and apprehensions while the suspects are still on the property.

If you would like more information about our proactive security solutions for shopping centers and other commercial properties with outdoor assets, contact us.