Armed Robbery Highlights Season's Dangers

As the holiday approaches, the robbery of a woman outside a store in a popular Redlands shopping center highlights the need for caution.

On Tuesday, Redlands Police say two masked robbers stole a woman’s purse at gunpoint just before 10 p.m. outside of Kohl’s department store at Citrus Plaza in the 27500 block of West Lugonia.

“The victim was placing purchases into her car when a silver BMW or Lexus pulled up beside her,” said Carl Baker, spokesman for Redlands Police. “The driver and a passenger in the rear seat pointed handguns out of the window and demanded the woman’s purse.”

Both gunmen wore ski masks over their faces and the driver was described only as a Hispanic male.

Police did not say how much the gunman took. The incident serves as a reminder of the danger common during the holidays.

Law enforcement officials warn that thieves are always looking to take advantage of shoppers. At centers such as Citrus Plaza, where hundreds stream in and out of stores daily, the risks increase.

San Bernardino County Sheriff's officials provide the following tips to help keep you safe during the holiday season:

• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.
• Dress casually and comfortably.
• Avoid wearing expensive jewelry.
• Do not carry a purse or wallet, if possible.
• Always carry your California Driver License or Identification Card along with necessary cash, checks and/or a credit card you expect to use.
• Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
• Pay for purchases with a check or credit card when possible.
• Keep cash in your front pocket.
• Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.
• Keep a record of all of your credit card numbers in a safe place at home.
• Be extra careful if you do carry a wallet or purse. They are the prime targets of criminals in crowded shopping areas, transportation terminals, bus stops, on buses and other rapid transit.
• Avoid overloading yourself with packages. It is important to have clear visibility and freedom of motion to avoid mishaps.
• Store your shopping bags and personal property in the trunk of your car. Criminals will break into your car if valuables are visible to them.

Police ask anyone with additional information on the armed robbery to call Detective Rob Williams at (909) 798-7688 or Redlands Police Dispatch at (909) 798-7681. Anonymous tips can be provided by texting 274637 using the keyword REDTIP.