Make sure there is visibility from inside the building to the outside and nothing is blocking the view. Have both an alarm system and closed circuit video camera recording system installed. Have cameras installed not only inside the store, but outside covering the parking lots so vehicle descriptions can be obtained. Vary the bank deposit times and routes. Use an armored car service if at all possible. Increase exterior lighting around the business. Have two (2) people to open and close the business.  Have your employees watch out for each other; especially during the opening and closing.  Report any suspicious people and / or their vehicle to the Police Department at our non-emergency number of 893-1311

If a robbery does occur, do not panic and stay calm.  Listen very carefully to the robber’s instructions and cooperate whenever possible. Keep your hands in plain view at all times and make no sudden moves. Activate the armed robbery alarm immediately. Be observant and memorize the criminal’s characteristics such as: height; weight; hair color; clothes; voice/accent; locations the suspect touched or placed any items; type/color of vehicle and license plate number.

After the robbery has occurred immediately call “911” Before You Call Anyone Else!!  Stay on the line with the dispatcher answering any questions regarding the robbery. Lock all doors to keep the robber from coming back in and to preserve evidence. Cooperate fully with law enforcement when they arrive.

Remember, Rutherford County Crime Stoppers offers a “Cash” reward of up to $1,000. for the arrest of any felony crime in Rutherford County. The number is 893-STOP (7867). Crime Stoppers operates Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:30 P.M.

The Criminal Investigations Division may also be contacted directly at 893-2717.