Tulsa Police Focus Security Efforts To Keep Shoppers Safe This Holiday Season

Tulsa police are focusing their security efforts on Woodland Hills Mall and the rest of 71st Street to keep shoppers safe.

Tulsa police Sgt. Brian Collum said that's why officers are patrolling the mall to give shoppers peace of mind.

"Our main goal is to be present," Collum said. "We want people to see an officer when they come shopping, and that's pretty much our goal and that's worked over the years." 

Ashley Moody is working her first Black Friday and said the police presence is making her less nervous.

"I feel safe," Moody said. "I see the security rolling around the mall all the time, and so, I think they do a good job at keeping us safe out here." 

The Tulsa County Sheriff's Office also has observation towers to make sure there no car thefts.

It's all part of a program called Operation Safe Shopper that started more than a decade ago.

Collum said in that time, they've seen crime drop significantly.

"We don't have that many problems as we used to out here just because of this program," Collum said. "Officers are out here at the peak times at the mall at their busiest times." 

Moody said she sees the work the officers put in and hopes their efforts in keeping everyone safe don't go unnoticed.

"They come around and check on us while we're working and then as I'm walking through the mall, they don't know that I'm a worker, so they ask if I'm doing OK," Moody said. 

Police said if you do have something stolen or if you feel uncomfortable while shopping, call 911.