Posted on August 2, 2012

Law Enforcement Frustrated with Growing Number of Flash Mob Crimes in MD

Derek Valcourt, CBS Baltimore, July 26, 2012

We get the first look at the video of the flash mob robbery at a 7-Eleven in downtown Baltimore with scores of young people rushing the store.

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May 23: The 7-Eleven on Light Street. Surveillance cameras record as groups of teens walk to the back of the store for a free Slurpee giveaway. But soon, the cameras catch them as dozens begin to steal and pocket items off the shelves.

When store employees in the red shirts realize what’s happening, they block the doors to stop the young thieves from leaving.

But the kids physically struggle to get out and even appear to hit the store manager who then swings back. After the brief altercation, many kids dash out the door.

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After reviewing the surveillance video, the Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s office opted not to pursue criminal charges in the case saying not every conflict warrants them.

What happened here is not an isolated incident. It’s happening more and more across Maryland and it’s a real source of frustration for law enforcement.

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“I don’t think there’s any place that is immune from flash mobbing,” security expert Rob Weinhold with the Weinhold/Fallston Group said.

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