Darian Trotter ABC26 News

March 2, 2011
NEW ORLEANS—
It's one of the oldest tricks in the book, but many people become victims of pick pocket thieves every year during Mardi Gras.

New Orleans Police are asking people celebrating Carnival to be on guard.

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Bourbon Street in known for good times; especially during the upcoming Mardi Gras weekend.

Bryan and Tina Petty are visiting from Chattanooga.

"You have to come to Mardi Gras at one point in your life," said Bryan Petty.

And while thousands of people are flocking to the French Quarter... so too are people up to no good.

Pick pockets are on the prowl.

Just ask the management team at Razzoo. It's where a woman was dancing Sunday, when an unknown man joined her on the dance floor. No problem, until he picked her pocket and ran away with cash.

"We do everything we can to keep undesirable people out, but whenever you have big crowds in town there's always going to be a few people who come out to take advantage of people here to have a good time," said Eric Johnson.

Bryan Petty has had problems during Mardi Gras in the past.

"I've been had money taken out of my pocket, I've had people try to get me in compromising positions, things like that just have to be aware of the situation," Petty said.

That's exactly what New Orleans Police recommend.

They'll be watching on the ground and from high above.

It's how they were able to arrest 35-year old Darryl Gilbert making his get-a-way.

He's the suspected dance floor thief at Razzoo.

"We have security monitoring both doors," Johnson said. "They will be exits only, only allowing people in the other doors."

Razzoo manager Eric Johnson offers his best advice.

"Keep your belongings secure, carry your wallet in your front pocket," Johnson said. "Monitor how much you drink so you are aware of what's going on around you."

Petty agrees, "This is not our local bar we're getting drunk at this is a more dangerous situation. and so I'm trying to communicate that to her hopefully she's listening. I'm listening, I'm listening baby, I'm listening."

Police suggest you leave high priced valuables at home or secured in your hotel room.

They also suggest carrying cash and wallets in your front pocket, and travel in groups; especially if you plan to drink alcohol.