Arlington and Fairfax police ramp up efforts for a safer holiday shopping experience

ARLINGTON, Va. (7News) — The rush is on to get everyone’s gifts before the holidays, and local law enforcement is increasing their presence around busy shopping areas.

Some shoppers are being extra cautious, especially after a woman was carjacked at gunpoint in the parking lot of a Costco earlier this year.

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“Watch what time you come,” said Kiana Davidson, who 7News met at Costco in Pentagon City Friday. “I know a couple of weeks ago my mom saw on the news what happened here in the parking lot.”

Our cameras captured a security guard watching over the entire Costco parking lot. The main gate was broken so crews had to repair it while cars continued to come in and out.

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We also saw several Arlington County officers outside the Pentagon City Mall.

Police shared several tips to keep you safe, including hiding what you buy in your trunk and not carrying large amounts of cash.

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At Tysons Corner Center, the Fairfax Police Department has a special team of 12 officers to watch crimes as they happen at the mall.

“I normally keep my head on a swivel,” said Leta Mays, who was at the Pentagon City Costco. “I look around, make sure nobody is near the car, I try and be safe but you never know, crimes travel.”

Officers suggest never leaving your car running while you go into a store, even for a little bit, and never leave your keys, wallet, or valuables in the car.

We have reached out to the Arlington County Police Department as well as Fairfax to see if the number of carjackings or break-ins has gone up year over year.