The holidays should be a time of celebration, family gatherings and supporting local businesses. Unfortunately, they also provide opportunities for criminals looking to take advantage of unsuspecting shoppers. From sophisticated online scams and identity theft to fraudulent shopping websites, vehicle break-ins and stolen packages, criminals are finding increasingly creative ways to separate consumers from their hard-earned money.

To help residents and businesses stay one step ahead, the Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce will host Focus Friday: Safe for the Holidays on Friday, October 16, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., in the Chamber's Marion Conference Room, 19900 West Catawba Avenue in Cornelius.

The program will feature four law enforcement professionals representing the Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville Police Departments, sharing practical advice on protecting personal information, recognizing scams and safeguarding holiday purchases.

Holiday Crime: A Growing Concern

The numbers illustrate why awareness matters. According to the FBI's 2025 Internet Crime Report, Americans reported nearly $21 billion in internet-related crime losses nationwide, with North Carolina residents reporting approximately $431.6 million. Closer to home, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police recorded more than 35,000 property crimes in 2025, including over 10,000 thefts from automobiles.

With holiday shopping beginning in earnest, criminals increasingly use fraudulent delivery notifications, fake retail websites, deceptive text messages and financial scams to target consumers. Meanwhile, unattended packages, shopping bags left in vehicles and unlocked cars create opportunities for traditional theft.

Local Officers Offer Expert Advice

The panel will include Detective AJ Heitmann of the Davidson Police Department, an eight-year veteran whose investigative work increasingly involves financial fraud and cybercrime. Heitmann frequently collaborates with local, state and federal agencies on complex investigations.

Representing the Huntersville Police Department will be Community Engagement Officer Matthew Choice and Detective Tim Lesser, offering perspectives on crime prevention, community awareness and criminal investigations.

Detective Matthew Piwowar of the Cornelius Police Department will round out the panel. Both Heitmann and Piwowar have previously been recognized by the Lake Norman Chamber as Officers of the Year.

The discussion will be moderated by Pat Jackson, 2026 Chair of the Chamber's Public Policy Committee, with opportunities for attendees to ask questions.

Shop Local. Shop Smart. Shop Safely.

The Chamber also encourages residents to support Lake Norman businesses throughout the holiday shopping season and into the new year. Shopping locally supports jobs, strengthens neighborhood businesses and keeps dollars circulating in our community.

Whether visiting local retailers, dining at neighborhood restaurants or purchasing gift certificates, shoppers can support the local economy while taking sensible precautions to protect themselves and their purchases.

Focus Friday: Safe for the Holidays is presented by Novant Health and sponsored by Cornelius Today and WSIC News.

Those unable to attend in person may request Zoom access credentials to participate remotely.

As the holiday season approaches, the Chamber encourages everyone to remember three simple messages:

Stay Alert. Shop Safe. Shop Local.  After all, the best holiday gift is peace of mind.