Posted on 12/23/24
| News Source: FOX45
Towson, MD - Dec. 23, 2024 - It’s one of the most joyful times of the year, but also one of the busiest for shopping.
Some shoppers in Towson are hoping to avoid the crowds and some are avoiding the Towson Town Center altogether.
Melissa Paddock, a Towson resident, says, “It’s sad to say but yeah I’ve avoided the mall and I haven’t in the past, but this year I avoided the mall.”
On Sunday afternoon, two people were arrested after a fight at Towson Town Center, interrupting the holiday shopping rush.
“It’s kind of a tradition to shop at Macy’s [...] and I didn’t go because of the possibility of crime,” said Paddock.
As of December 3, Baltimore County Police say they have responded to 492 crimes at Towson Town Center so far this year.
That includes 35 assaults, 24 cases of destruction of property, 19 burglaries, and 13 robberies.
Laurie Bacon, a Baltimore County resident, says, “It does surprise me, it’s not at all something that was going on around here when I was growing up.”
Police also confirm two carjackings, the most recent one involving five teens who police say attacked two people in the parking garage.
Baltimore County State's Attorney Scott Shellenberger is concerned with the crime.
“It’s a very difficult crime for two people who are minding their own business at the shopping center, walking to their car, believe they are being followed, start running to their car, then they get accosted while they are in their car,” said Shellenberger. “Fortunately, one of the victims in the car was able to dial 911, and once that happened the potential defendants ran away.”
In response to recent crime, Baltimore County Police have increased patrols in the Towson area.
“It seems it would be helpful to have more of a police presence,” said Bacon.
Helping to ease some shopper’s concerns.
“The increased presence, it’s a complicated problem, and that’s one step towards it,” said Paddock.
Police are also asking residents to remain vigilant and be aware of their surroundings.