A string of smash-and-grab robberies have been taking place at Largo Plaza in Maryland, with cars being consistently targeted at the shopping center. This has led to a decline in customers for local businesses such as Phenix Salon Suites. The owner of The Grooming Lounge, Renaldo Williams, stated that the daytime has become particularly risky, requiring everyone to be on high alert.
Despite the increase in crime, Williams has not let it slow down his hair-cutting services and has found that being vigilant has paid off for him and his customers. There have been no police presence in the area to address the issue. A stylist a few doors down from Williams fell victim to the robberies when a colleague discovered a break-in.
Andrea Butler, another stylist at the plaza, recounted how a colleague alerted her to a potential break-in. The incidents have continued with cars being broken into and vandalized within seconds. Williams expressed frustration at the lack of police response and the inability to catch the perpetrators.
Neighborhood residents surrounding the shopping center have also reported similar issues with car break-ins. Last year, Phenix Salon Suites was targeted when someone drove a truck through a back wall to steal an ATM. The stylists at the salon have advised their customers to park in well-lit areas with more pedestrian traffic to prevent future break-ins.
Butler emphasized the need for increased police patrols in the area, rather than just security patrols. Despite numerous calls to the police, there have been no arrests made in connection to the car break-ins. The community is hopeful for increased law enforcement presence and efforts to prevent further incidents.
In addition, many of these incidents happened during broad daylight hours which shows how brazen these criminals are becoming.
Williams also mentioned that he had installed cameras around his shop but they did not help much as none of them were able capture any useful footage.
The owners of other shops at Largo Plaza are concerned about their business but they are determined not to let this stop them from providing service for their customers.
Residents living near Largo Plaza are also worried about their safety and security as these crimes continue unchecked.
It seems that there is a need for more action from law enforcement agencies to address this growing problem and ensure that people feel safe and secure while visiting Largo Plaza or conducting business there.
