Rash Of Thefts Threaten The Retail Growth In Center City
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Center city Philadelphia has become a bustling retail destination. Shoppers gliding in and out of new stores like Century 21 on Market street.
With that ease comes the ease of criminals targeting high end stores. In the overnight hours Friday, thieves shattered windows here at the Century 21 store, stealing display items like clothing and accessories.
The newly opened Bloomingdales outlet at Liberty Place became the target of nine masked thieves on Tuesday evening.
There was also a burglary at Barsky Diamonds Saturday morning, with burglars swiping jewels.
Despite pockets of crime over the past 8 years, the Center City District has worked to change the perception of Philly and they're seeing a retail explosion.
"Since 2013 we've seen more than 30 national retail stores come into Center City," said Michelle Shannon with the Center City District. "Shoppers welcome the changes and hope a few criminal acts don't spoil the growth"
