MWC Police Beefing Up Patrols During The Holidays

One metro Police Department is doing its part to keep holiday shoppers safe this weekend.

Midwest City police say they have had undercover officers out patrolling the parking lot at the shops at Town Center near I-40 and SE 29th. There are Oklahoma County sheriff’s deputies taking turns keeping watch in the overhead tower placed right in the center of this massive parking lot there.

Police say they also have decoy cars parked in the parking lots with several packages inside trying to lure potential thieves to take the bait.

"And it's not just on SE 29th," said Midwest City Police Chief Brandon Clabes. "It's at our big box stores and our small businesses too. So we want to encourage everyone to come shop in Midwest City because we feel like it is going to be very safe this year, as it has in years past."

And for parents shopping with young kids, this extra shopping surveillance both inside and outside the stores is welcome.

"It makes me feel a lot safer because I am usually by myself and my back's turned, putting the baby in and knowing that someone else is out there watching," said Kacie Lilly, one of the many parents out shopping on Black Friday. "I find it a lot more comforting."

"I think it’s great that they are out here," Josh Parrish, who was out shopping with his wife and four children.

"It does make me feel better coming out with two small kids not having to worry about being targeted or messed with," said shopper Chelsea Parsons.

Clabes also encourages everyone out there to shop in pairs, be aware and have a plan, and don't leave any valuables in your car, even for a minute. And if you do see something suspicious - dial 911 immediately.