The Police Department’s Crime Prevention Office is warning patrons of bars, restaurants, coffee shops and clubs, especially in the Sixth, Seventh and Ninth Precincts, about unattended-property crimes.
“People leave their bags on the backs of their chairs or on the floor beside them in bars and restaurants and then step away — to the restroom or for another drink. They come back to find the bag gone or a wallet stolen from it,” said Detective John Flaherty. “In bars and nightclubs, women often leave all their bags on one chair and throw a coat or something over them. Then they go on the dance floor or visit another table. The bad guys know what’s under the coat, ladies! It’s not a good practice,” Flaherty warned.
“In coffee shops, people spread their electronic equipment on their table, go for another cup of coffee — and the laptop is gone. Please keep an eye on your stuff,” Flaherty said.
