Shopper safety concerns intensify following latest Roosevelt Field incident

Simon Property Group released a statement saying that security is its “highest priority.”

Carmen Grant and Rob Taub

Aug 28, 2023, 9:15 PM

Updated 526 days ago

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Shoppers are concerned for their safety following a frightening smash-and-grab attempt at Roosevelt Field Mall on Saturday.
Police say a Hempstead man attempted to steal $370,000 worth of jewelry from Macy’s using a baseball bat to smash display cases. This created mayhem in the mall, with hundreds of shoppers and employees running for the exits.
The attempted robbery is the latest in a string of crimes at Roosevelt Field in 2023. In June, a shopper was slashed and required 80 stiches.
Simon Property Group released a statement saying that security is its “highest priority.”
They say several security measures are in place including around-the-clock patrols and license plate readers at every parking entrance that provide real-time alerts to Nassau County police.
There is also a police substation on the premises and a specialized K-9 unit.
Some shoppers, however, think more can be done at specific locations.
“I think it could see a little more security, especially in Macy’s and Nordstrom where they are doing these crimes,” one consumer named Paula says.
Mall officials also tell News 12 that it is grateful for the swift actions of Nassau County police that led to an arrested of the Hempstead man in the attempted robbery over the weekend.