Tips for Safe Holiday Parking in Southeast: Putnam Sheriff

Putnam County Sheriff Donald B. Smith is alerting county residents to a potentially dangerous scam which seemed to have originated in Maryland.

According to published reports, incidents have occurred whereby some money was left under windshield wipers of vehicles usually parked in public parking lots.

Perpetrators placing the bill upon the vehicle hope that this would distract the driver.

When the unsuspecting driver retrieves the cash, the criminal, using the element of surprise, would approach the vehicle and rob the victim of their belongings and in some cases the car itself. These crimes have been referred to as “cash-bait carjacking.”

Although there haven’t been any reports of this scam occurring in Putnam County, Smith is asking motorists to be particularly vigilant during the holiday season.

“Anyone finding money on their motor vehicles is urged to move quickly to a safe place and notify store security personnel or law enforcement immediately. Those finding the money while they are inside their vehicles are asked to remain in the vehicle, immediately lock the doors and not retrieve the money,” said the Sheriff.

Additionally, Smith offers the following safety tips:

• Park in well-lit areas as close to the store as possible.
• Do not purchase more items than you can safely carry.
• Have your keys in hand when approaching your vehicle.
• Check the vehicle’s back seat and surrounding area before you get into your vehicle.
• Trust your intuition. If something “feels” out of place, go with your instincts.
• Carry your pocketbook close to your body or place your wallet inside a coat or front trouser pocket.

“Naturally, if you see something of suspicious nature, contact the nearest law enforcement agency,” concluded Sheriff Smith.