Local law enforcement officers warn that criminals see plenty of opportunity every Christmas shopping season because they know many people are carrying large sums of cash and leaving expensive presents lying around. Logan Police Chief David White is asking residents to help area police by preparing for the routine increase in property crimes and crimes of opportunity over the holiday season.

For years an increase of shoplifting, burglaries, muggings and other thefts has come to town around November and December as area thieves take advantage of the holidays. There have been burglary and home invasion epidemics, incidents where women have been injured as passing thieves in automobiles have grabbed purses and dragged victims as well as cars with presents broken into.

"We are asking everybody to pay extra attention this time of year to avoid becoming victims and to keep an eye out for other people so they are not victimized," Chief White said. "This year, be courteous and watch your packages, and watch where other people place their packages so you can avoid thefts. Don't leave packages out which could tempt a thief to snatch what you just bought."

Chief White said his department has had a very busy fall, making 33 arrests on 28 complaints in the month of October; doing eight accident investigations and issuing 14 citations. White said officers attended refresher courses to get their First Responder credentials up to date, and his officers are getting ready for an increase as the shopping season kicks into high gear.

Sergeant Brian M. Brown of the West Virginia State Police said that by being alert and aware of their surroundings the public could do a lot to benefit area law enforcement, such as keeping vehicles locked, traveling in groups and being aware of what is going on when you go into and out of a store.

"Keep your keys in hand and get in and out of your vehicle quickly... Be cautious about our surroundings in terms of people and places. Don't carry large sums of cash," Brown said.

Other tips from the Logan Police Department, the West Virginia State Police and other police agencies include: