Surge in Wallet Thefts at Bay Area Trader Joe's Stores Prompts Police Warning

Police in California's Bay Area are advising Trader Joe's shoppers to remain vigilant after a spate of wallet thefts from unattended carts.

Thieves are targeting shoppers' wallets at Trader Joe's stores in the Tri-Valley area, including Livermore, Danville, and San Ramon.
Livermore Police Department has issued safety tips, urging shoppers to keep valuables close and minimize distractions.
The crime trend is part of a broader surge in crime affecting businesses in nearby cities such as San Francisco and Oakland.
Local police departments are encouraging the public to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior to store staff or security.
In response to rising crime, businesses like Blue Shield and Clorox are hiring security escorts for employees in Oakland.