NEW YORK — Pickpockets are taking advantage of unsuspecting people in big holiday season crowds throughout New York City, police officials warned Saturday.
While New Yorkers and tourists gathered to watch the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree light up in midtown on Wednesday night, the New York City Police Department's new Citywide Pickpocket Squad busted seven people for trying to lift cellphones and other belongings from distracted people in the crowd, cops said.
“Just be aware and always try to hide your stuff,” said Sgt. John Pritchard, a team leader. “Always try to keep your things in front of you.... You have to keep your head on a swivel at all times.”
