Creative Anti-Theft Measure Sees Success in Bronx as NYPD Tests WhatsApp Groups
A CREATIVE low-tech anti-theft measure strategically stops thieves and sees success quickly.
NYPD Tests WhatsApp Groups for Retailers in the Bronx
New York Police Department detectives created a WhatsApp group for retailers located in the Bronx, New York, to send photos/videos of theft occurring in real-time to identify people better and catch them.
Crime Prevention via WhatsApp: A New Sheriff in Town for Bronx Retailers
The anti-theft measure utilizes direct contact and keeping a log of it on WhatsApp. It is a pilot that has been offered to retailers for a few weeks and has already seen success with arrests, New York Post reported.
Rising Theft Rates Prompt Innovative Security Measures
The pilot comes as theft rates have risen in the Bronx but calling 911 was not working to catch the thieves. According to data from NYPD, robberies are up 5% in the Bronx just in the first three weeks of 2024.
Retailers Leveraging Technology to Tackle Crime
Large retailers like Walmart and Target along with smaller retailers can use the chat to report the thieves. Eddie Vargas, who operates a Pioneer supermarket in the Bronx, said police responded in just five minutes after a thief was reported to the chat. Carlos Collado, who owns two Fine Fare stores in the Bronx and Harlem, said the WhatsApp chats have been great at logging repeated offenders.
Retail Giants Take a Hit from Increase in Theft and Organized Crime
In September 2023, Target released a statement that it had to close nine Target stores across four states, effective on October 21 due to theft. Walmart CEO Doug McMillon also expressed concerns, stating that if theft rates were not reduced, the company would need to close stores and raise prices.
With these innovative strategies, retailers in the Bronx are fighting back against theft and organized crime to maintain a safe shopping environment.