Security tightens for Black Friday

MOBILE, Ala. - The Mobile Police Department promised to step up security on the busiest day of shopping.

When folks pulled up to Colonial Bel-Air Mall Friday, it was obvious the mall was not lacking in security. Mobile Police had towers set up on each side of the mall in the parking lots, and mall security was on every corner.

"We increase our staff on Black Friday both inside and outside," said Mall Manager, Tim Nolan.

Colonial Bel-Air Mall called in all 25 of their security officers for the busiest shopping day of the year. With the large number of shoppers looking for Black Friday bargains, that's no surprise.

"We have four security vehicles that are patrolling the parking lot, we have two people in the camera room, and we also have several security officers inside the mall," said Nolan.

In addition to security cameras set up inside individual stores in the mall, there are 28 other cameras set up in various locations all over Colonial Bel-Air Mall taking pictures inside and outside of the mall at all times.

"The computer is controlling these, and then we can go and control the cameras. We're able to zoom in and go throughout the mall," he said.

Knowing that makes shoppers like Justin Williams feel a lot safer.

"I feel real safe, real secure. There are a lot of undercover cops around. I've seen a couple of guys with regular clothes on with a badge around their necks. I think they're doing a good job on this Black Friday shopping day, patrolling and everything, keeping us safe," said Williams.

All the officers on patrol helped make the mall a little more pleasant for everyone.