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Syracuse police report a decrease in retail crime at Destiny USA mall during the holiday season. The reduction follows the efforts of the Property Crime Task Force, which was launched last year. Since its inception, the task force has recovered over $200,000 worth of merchandise and achieved an arrest rate of about 91%, according to Detective Joseph LeBlanc of the Syracuse Police Department. The task force aims to track down thieves and prevent retail crime, aided by the mall's license plate readers that monitor vehicles entering and exiting the property.
During the holiday season, additional officers are on duty at the mall, patrolling on foot, bikes, and roving patrols. Shoppers are encouraged to report suspicious activities and ensure their vehicles are locked. The task force's efforts have resulted in fewer than eight calls for property crime over the Black Friday weekend, as noted by Detective LeBlanc.
The mall, known for its dining and attractions, sees about 16 million visitors annually. Despite past incidents of violent crime, the collaboration between the Syracuse Police, the District Attorney's Office, and Destiny USA management has significantly improved safety. Deputy Chief Mark Rusin highlighted a "significant reduction" in crime since last fall, with approximately 50% fewer calls and 283 arrests, 72 of which resulted in felony charges.
The District Attorney's Office is also focusing on the Serial Theft Offender Program (STOP) to address retail theft, emphasizing that organized criminals, not minor offenders, are being prosecuted. The DA’s office has successfully convicted a career shoplifter, resulting in a 14-year sentence.