Exclusive | ‘You gotta have your head on a swivel’

The NYPD has taken a proactive approach to tackle the issue of pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas like Times Square, Bryant Park, and near Rockefeller Center. One of the measures they have implemented is positioning an electronic billboard truck in front of Radio City Music Hall on Sixth Avenue in Midtown. The billboard boldly warns passersby to “Beware of pickpockets,” in an effort to raise awareness and deter potential thieves.

Pickpocketing has been a persistent problem in tourist hotspots, prompting the NYPD to establish a dedicated plainclothes “pickpocket unit” that patrols these areas to catch thieves in the act. Despite the challenges posed by pickpockets, the overall crime rate in the NYPD’s 18th Precinct, which includes Radio City, has seen a decline this year. Petit larceny, which encompasses pickpocketing and retail theft, has decreased by 18% compared to the same period last year.

While robberies have increased by 9% in the precinct, the NYPD attributes this spike to the large influx of temporary migrant housing in the area, which has since been addressed. Residents and visitors alike are urged to exercise caution, especially during the holiday season and in tourist-heavy areas. Beverly Paterson, a retired teacher from Georgia who now resides in the Bronx, emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and keeping valuables secure.

Bob Kuppelmeyer, a retired defense industry employee, echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need to be aware of one’s surroundings and to avoid being naive. He advises keeping wallets in front pockets and maintaining a watchful eye on personal belongings. Peter Talocci, a Bay Ridge resident, warns of the skill and speed of pickpockets, who can easily swipe valuables in crowded areas with a simple brush against the victim.

Tourists like Ella Worstell, who recently visited France where pickpocketing is prevalent, have learned to take precautions such as hiding their bags under coats to deter thieves. Despite the challenges posed by pickpockets, the NYPD’s efforts, including the electronic billboard campaign, aim to raise awareness and protect residents and visitors from falling victim to these crimes. With a combination of vigilance and caution, individuals can help combat pickpocketing and ensure a safer environment in crowded urban areas.