On The Patrol: Tulsa Police's Safe Shopper Program

With thousands of shoppers trying to bag those Black Friday bargains, Tulsa Police officers are on the lookout for those who want to steal those deals.

Extra cops will be on foot, on bikes, and in their cars to make sure your shopping trip is a safe one this holiday season. 

With unattended cars, shopping bags acting as walking advertisements and shoppers with their minds on deals not dangers, this can be prime real estate for a thief.

"A year or two prior to us being out here they were setting records out here for cars being broke into," said Tulsa Police Cpl. Brian Collum. 

But not anymore, thanks to officers like Corporal Brian Collum and his fellow officers. 

"This is our fourth year and since we've been out here on bikes in the parking lots we've only had one car broke into since we've been out," said Tulsa Police Cpl. Brian Collum. 

Weaving among the cars on their bikes, this Safe Shopper patrol is giving TPD a few extra eyes and ears and giving shoppers a little peace of mind.

"A lot of our attention is focused on the mall because of the amount of people that will be out here," said Tulsa Police Cpl. Brian Collum. 

The patrols fan out in the major shopping districts in the city from Woodland Hills to Tulsa Hills to Promenade Mall. 

These officers say they're looking out for you, but you should do your part to keep you and your valuables safe. 

"These types of crimes are opportunity type crimes.  They see something in your window and then they attempt to take it," said Tulsa Police Cpl. Brian Collum. 

Follow the sign, lock up, and don't leave anything valuable in sight. And don't be tempted to shop, then drop off at your car and keep shopping. 

"A lot of people are buying a lot of items. If you have to take items to your car, it's best that you take them home somewhere," said Tulsa Police Cpl. Brian Collum."Just be safe. Always be aware of what's going on around you." 

The Safe Shopping patrols will be out here every weekend until the day after Christmas, which these officers say is just a busy if not busier than Black Friday.