JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – While there will be heavy police presence around TIAA Bank Field and inside RV city now through Saturday night for the Georgia-Florida game, officials are encouraging those attending the game and tailgating parties to not let their guard down when they venture away.
Security is a top priority, especially in surrounding areas near game festivities now that RV City is officially open ahead of this week’s big game.
John Corley owns the Wild Bill Saloon near the stadium and said someone stole his golf cart from the parking lot.
“Sometime between 2 and 10 this morning, it just disappeared,” Corley said.
The Hyatt Regency Hotel is where many out-of-state Florida and Georgia football fans will be staying this weekend. It’s only an 11-minute walk from the TIAA Bank Field. According to police, there were recently six auto burglaries in one week.
Brad Carter is a former law enforcement officer who comes to the game every year from Valdosta, Georgia, and said he’s not surprised about the thefts so close to the stadium.
“I don’t think these thieves are amateurs. They know what they are looking for,” Carter said.
A few fans shared how they remain vigilant to stay one step ahead of the criminals.
“Definitely just be aware of your surroundings. Lock things up and don’t leave things in plain sight,” Jason Edmonds said.
“It’s definitely going to be on your mind, but as long as you remain vigilant and you’re smart and not leaving personal belongings out and lock up everything, you should be okay,” Danielle Lolley said.
Several people staying in RV City said when they venture away, they always keep their carts within their view.