ST. CHARLES – As the city’s crime prevention officer, Bill Tynan doesn’t want residents to fall victim to a shopping crime this holiday season.

The St. Charles Police Department receives reports of such crimes throughout the year, he said, but it’s especially important for shoppers to take heed during the holiday season, which boasts bigger crowds and more distracting situations, such as 3 a.m. Black Friday deals.

The holidays present “more potential victims out there for offenders to take advantage of,” Tynan said. “Always have your guard up.”