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Latest numbers: Pickpocket reports double in 2018

Posted at 5:39 PM, Nov 30, 2018
and last updated 2018-11-30 21:20:59-05

In the first 11 months of 2018, 164 pickpocket crimes were reported in downtown Nashville, a 116 percent increase year-to-date.

In 2017, there were 76 reports at the end of November.

This holiday season, visitors to downtown need to be vigilant during the day and at night.

Police said you're less likely to be a target if you limit what you carry.

"Just take the necessary things you need inside these bars," said Sgt. Rickey Bearden, of the Metro Nashville Police Department. "If you can, keep all your personal belongings in your front pockets. Try to keep things out of your back pockets so you know exactly what's on you at all times."

Police, bar-owners and security teams talk on a monthly basis about these crimes.

Here are some ways to avoid a thief taking your things downtown.

  1. Put your valuables in the front pockets of your pants. Items in back pockets are easier to grab.
  2. Don't put your cellphone down on a bar or counter and look away.
  3. If you are wearing a jacket, take valuables out of the pockets before hanging it on a chair behind you.
  4. Wear cross-body purses in front of you not behind your back.
  5. Keep the bare minimum in your wallet.
  6.