At least ten thieves smashed display cases, snatched handbags, and ran out of the store on Monday.
Video that went viral shows 10 suspects running out of the store loaded up with merchandise.
"Police say the incident happened Monday at 5:49 p.m. at the store located at 150 Stockton Street in Union Square.
Shoppers and the California Retailers Association are reacting to the cell phone video that shows the 10 suspects…
"We have been saying this for years to leaders in San Francisco, that this is a growing problem, and it is falling on deaf ears. This should not be happening in a city like San Francisco, said Rachel Michelin, president of the CA retailers association...
Neiman Marcus isn't the first, just the latest. Thefts have forced Walgreens to close 17 stores in San Francisco. Target is now closing some stores early in San Francisco because of thefts. The retailers association is hoping for a statewide approach on this issue but has not been impressed with San Francisco's response to past retail thefts.
"The answer is not what the mayor said last week which was retailers just need to hire more security guards," Michelin said. "That's not going to solve the problem. Security guards are there to observe and report. They're not there to stop crime. That's law enforcement. We have to figure out a way in San Francisco for law enforcement and local officials to work together.""
San Francisco Supervisor Ahsha Safai is worried that these incidence will scare off retailers.