FRANKLIN, Tenn. (WSMV) - Shoppers are already getting a head start on their holiday shopping, which is keeping police busy as well.

The Franklin Police Department has launched its annual “Not in Our Mall” operation to protect shoppers during the busy holiday season.

Police are reminding shoppers to keep valuables tucked away in the trunk, park in well-lit areas and always lock their doors as holiday shopping gets underway.

Across the state, police say they are seeing more organized crime rings targeting high-end retail stores. Max Winitz, the Franklin Police public information officer, says their operation has already been successful.

“We got underway this year on November 14, so far we have made 22 arrests recovering about $5,000 in stolen merchandise,” said Winitz.

Police are warnin

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