A series of smash-and-grab robberies has been causing distress among shoppers and businesses at Largo Plaza in Maryland. Cars have been consistently broken into at the shopping center, leading customers to stay away from local businesses like those in Phenix Salon Suites. Renaldo Williams, the owner of The Grooming Lounge, expressed his concerns about the daytime thefts, noting the need for heightened vigilance while at work. Despite these challenges, Williams hasn’t slowed down his services, emphasizing that vigilance has paid off for him and his customers.
According to Williams, there is a lack of police presence at the plaza, making it easier for criminals to get away with theft. Another stylist in the area, Andrea Butler, shared her experience of fellow colleagues falling victim to break-ins. Incidents of smashed windows and stolen property have become a common occurrence, with thieves wearing masks and targeting vehicles in a matter of seconds. Despite residents reporting these crimes, a lack of police response has made it difficult to catch the culprits.
Neighborhood residents have also experienced similar issues with car break-ins on their streets. The crimes at Largo Plaza have prompted discussions about the need for increased patrols and police presence, rather than relying solely on security patrols. Last year, other crimes, such as a truck driving through a back wall and stealing an ATM, have impacted businesses in the plaza. Stylists at Phenix Salon Suites have begun advising their customers to park in more visible areas with higher foot traffic as a safety precaution.
With no arrests made in connection to the thefts, business owners and residents continue to express concerns about the lack of security in the area. Calls for more police presence and proactive measures to prevent further crimes from occurring at Largo Plaza have been growing. Despite these challenges, businesses and individuals in the area are hopeful for a resolution to improve safety and security in the community.