Jennifer Gomez, who previously served 10 years in prison for multiple burglary and theft charges, is now using her experiences to educate the public on how to avoid becoming victims of robbery. She shared three specific tips in a recent TikTok video aimed at minimizing risks when people are in public spaces.
Gomez's first recommendation is to configure car key fobs to unlock only the driver's side door initially. Many car manufacturers, including Honda and Toyota, offer this feature, which requires a second unlock command to open the other doors. Gomez stated that attackers often target the passenger side of vehicles, and this setting can act as a deterrent.
Her second piece of advice is to avoid placing groceries or other items in the back seat of a car, especially when parked in a lot. Gomez explained that being positioned between two vehicles, particularly with tinted windows, can obscure one's visibility and make them vulnerable. She suggests utilizing the car's trunk for storing items, as it offers greater visibility and reduces the risk of being unexpectedly grabbed and pulled into a vehicle.
The third and final tip emphasizes the importance of situational awareness. Gomez stressed that distracted individuals are often the primary targets for criminals because the element of surprise is a significant advantage. She urged people to remain alert and aware of their surroundings, even for brief moments, such as walking to their car. This includes not being engrossed in phones, conversations, or even managing children or bags, as attackers seek the easiest opportunity.
Gomez also highlighted the critical step of locking car doors immediately after entering a vehicle, emphasizing that even a brief window of opportunity should not be given to a potential attacker. Her advice has resonated with many online, with users agreeing on the practical value of her recommendations.
