Safety Warning, Stay Alert | I Had A Scary Experience At Costco

[@charlessalzer2763]

Hold your phone up and take his picture. That will get his attention I bet. -chuck - former cop 15 yrs. :)

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Yes, I should have. I just did not think of it in the moment. A lot of adrenaline rushing and I was holding onto my girls!

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

And don't let anyone bully you about taking their photo -- in the US it is legal in any public area (as reiterated by the Supreme Court as recently as 2018).

[@terrysaunders2026]

@charlessaltzer: Take the photo, but take a second to immediately text it to someone close to you; spouse, friend. Because if your suspicions are confirmed out in the parking lot, you may “lose” your purse/phone. This way, you can still get the photo from your other source.

[@lisacarden1309]

Yes Chuck 💯 🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼😉😘 My Daddy, if he were still here, would tell me the same.

[@spunkycat6144]

​@@terrysaunders2026love this tip.

[@keshamico1]

Remember, if you think you are being followed home, do not go home. Go to a police or fire station.

[@jude1515]

Good advice.

[@LadyMaven]

That's a good idea. When some foot fetish guy followed me home from the El train in Chicago. I was walking, so there was no way to get to a police station. I headed for my neighbors' homes, but no one was there. I should have gone to the gas station on the corner where they knew me. He was standing on the sidewalk across the street just watching me. It was very scary and unnerving. Once inside my own home, I locked both front doors, but I really should have called the police. He stood there, watching, for a while but finally left. It was so creepy seeing some strange man stalking me and getting turned on by my feet!

[@KD-nk3ht]

@@LadyMaven How nice of you to lead a deranged lunatic to your neighbor's house.

[@allisontison40]

Yes, it also is very good advice in a road rage situation. Take them to the sheriff! Point if they want to go inside! They always will drive off.

[@shannons1785]

Why they are closed?

[@seventhchild7270]

That GUT FEELING That ALL of us have,...Is our GOD GIVEN DISCERNMENT AND INTUITION....

[@lisacarden1309]

Exactly 💯🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼

[@KMBblessings]

Spidey sense

[@smiths4jmj]

And the help of our guardian angels!

[@CherylBerryl]

It's only when we DON'T listen to it, that we get ourselves in trouble! There was a detective that was on a talk show, and he was speaking about women who were assaulted, & after interviewing them, they ALL said that they felt that "something was Off" about the person...but that they didn't want to seem rude, so they went against their "gut feeling", and they paid a Terrible price, as they were all assaulted.

[@gailsmith8115]

Agree All too often it is ignored.

[@craigkeller]

Keep in mind that he may not be working alone. Assistant, driver, lookout, stay aware and teach the kids.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Yes, I did not immediately think about this, but you are totally right, and the most vulnerable time was actually outside the store, walking to our car...

[@vickidouglas9192]

Yes I was hoping you'd have asked the store for an escort to your car.

[@markasteelsr.5990]

My advice is: do not be a victim, be prepared for the unexpected. I've been carrying a concealed firearm on my side since the mid 1990s. No one is safe anywhere. I always scan the parking lot when I get out of my car. Situational awareness, also looking around while in the store. Predators will always single out people who appear to be "weak".

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

@@vickidouglas9192 I should have… but I was very alert and on my guard outside.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

@@markasteelsr.5990 good advices. Thanks!

[@louiseclark7967]

Something like this happened to my daughter who was pushing the baby in her cart. She noticed him first and told me, and I texted my son-in-law to come find us right away we were being followed. After the man had followed us down a couple of isles, I turned around and put my hands on my hips and asked him if I could help him with something. He didn't have a chance to answer because right then my son-in-law appeared, and I said this man has been following us. My son-in-law is a BIG dude, and he challenged the man who ran away right quick. We reported the incident to the store security, and pointed him out on the camera recording. These kinds of things will be happening more now, so women, be on your guard!! Don't go anywhere alone!!

[@terrysaunders2026]

@louiseclark: And please, everyone stop voting for the gun grabbing, anti 2A psychos.

[@carriebrannon8391]

@@louiseclark7967 and when women don't act all scared, but instead get aggressive with them it freaks them out and makes them think twice! The WORST thing you can do is act scared, they get off on that! If you aren't afraid they wonder why, is she armed, a black belt in judo, or just really mean??? WHY isn't she scared of me??!?

[@louiseclark7967]

@@carriebrannon8391 Exactly why I turned and challenged him myself. I am not afraid to defend myself, and certainly not my family! 👍

[@nicole-uo9cd]

@@carriebrannon8391 I am 61 years old and something like this happened to me when I was 21. I worked the closing shift at McD's so I got home from work in the wee morning hours. I didn't have a car back then. I walked down to the 24 hour convenience store to buy some cookies and return some empty soda cans for a refund. It was summer and the store's door was propped open. As I was browsing through the cookies, I happened to glance out the door and spotted a man across the street looking in. This didn't seem like a big deal until I left the store and began to walk home. I spotted the man across the street walking in the same direction. My gut told me he had waited for me outside so he could follow me. I turned toward him and when he looked over at me, I said "You better NOT be following me" - at which point he reversed his direction and headed the other way! DON'T be afraid to confront and ALWAYS trust your gut instincts!

[@marianfrances4959]

Don't go anywhere alone? That's laughable.

[@MamaKat40203]

I gave my daughter a code word that if I say it, I have spotted some danger and they need to come with me immediately and without any questions. One time we were at the playground. She was swinging. She was the only child on the swings. I was sitting on a bench about 15 yards away. An adult man came out of a house across the street from the park and came and sat on the swing beside her. I used our code word and we got out of there. You never know when you will need to use it!

[@ceepark114]

Great idea. I am always wary of everyone, but at the same time I don’t want to instill fear in my kids.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Great idea. Thanks for sharing.

[@MAEURASTAR]

@@ceepark114 It's not instilling fear. It's sharing a bond/word that is a warning. To this day: my married daughters who are over 40 know the word that means 'danger.' At this time: it could be used by the one who is in danger as an alert. The world is not as safe as it once was.

[@reglook1]

@@ceepark114 You bess instill fear in your kids, it could save their lives. Lots of crime you know.

[@terrysaunders2026]

@MAEURASTAR: You’re right, the world is a dangerous place. But as I get older, and pay attention with all the info sources out there, I realize it was NEVER as safe as we like to remember. Stay safe out there!

[@ittybittykittymama7582]

I was subjected to a terrifying incident many years ago. I was travelling alone from the city where I lived, to my parents' home in another city, about a hundred miles away via an interstate highway. I stopped at a rest area along the way because the sun was low in the sky and I didn't want to stop later after it was dark. There were not many cars in the rest area, as it was late on a weekday, but I didn't think about that, only about getting to my parents' house. I emerged from the restroom and walked out into the golden afternoon sun. Suddenly, a taller man stepped from the left side of the walkway and roughly took my arm. I tried to pull my arm away, but he held me tightly, very close to his side. "You're coming with me," he growled, his voice deep and menacing. My eyes frantically scanned the area, but there was no one in sight. I glimpsed my car parked not far away and I knew that I had just one chance to escape. My keys were in my right hand and I quietly placed my fingers between the keys as I had been taught by a police officer friend. I grasped the keys tightly and swung my arm up toward my captor's face as hard as I could, scratching him deeply with the keys. He yelled in surprise and pain, releasing his hold on my left arm for a moment. I shoved him away from me as hard as I could and started running toward my car. I quickly opened the door and hopped inside, locking the door with my left hand and jamming the keys into the ignition with my right. I started the engine just as he reached my car, banging on the driver's side window with his fist. I started blowing the car's horn and threw the car into reverse, the car's tires screeching on the pavement. I floored the car's accelerator and shot off as quickly as my car would go. In the rear view mirror, I saw him turn and run toward the truck parking lot, disappearing behind a big rig. I hit the interstate lanes and sped off, trying to mix with other traffic. Imagine my dismay when I glanced in the rearview mirror again and saw his truck bearing down on me at a high rate of speed! His face was filled with anger and I could see him wiping his cheek with his hand. He was clearly wounded and was coming for me! "Help me, LORD JESUS!" I prayed out loud. I drove as fast as I could and managed to stay ahead of the speeding truck. I was weaving in and out of traffic, even driving in the emergency lane at times. He got close enough to bump my car once, trying to cause me to lose control, but I recovered and kept going. I remembered that there was a highway patrol office not too much further down the interstate, so I asked my little car for all it had and it delivered. The exit I needed to take was just a bit farther and I pulled into the emergency lane to pass a car, then whipped onto the exit ramp, driving through the grass to get there. I blew through the red light and took the left turn at a dangerously high rate of speed. I saw his truck drive across overhead on the overpass just ahead of me. I breathed a deep sigh of relief and shouted, "Thank you, LORD!" I had lost him! I quickly pulled into the highway patrol office parking lot and jumped from my car as if the devil himself was after me! I ran inside through the glass doors and nearly collapsed at the reception desk. I briefly told the officer at the desk what had happened to me. I gave a description of my attacker and his truck and, in moments, several officers ran out to their parked cars while a female officer escorted me to a room down a hallway behind some double doors. She asked me to recount my story in more detail, then got me a soda and asked me if I wanted to call anyone. I called my parents, glad my Dad answered the phone, and explained what had happened quickly, trying not to cry. Then I settled down to await their arrival. The truck driver was found parked beside the highway a few miles down the road and was quickly arrested. I did not see or speak to him when he was brought into the station, as I was still waiting for my parents in another room. I was glad I didn't have to see him again, but the sound of his voice as he cursed the arresting officers made me shiver with fear. My parents arrived at the station a short while later and I was asked to identify my would-be kidnapper. It wasn't difficult. He had a number of deep scratches on his ugly face. The sight of my parents caused me to break into tears of relief and fear but we soon left the station where my attacker was in handcuffs, guarded by two burly patrolmen. I followed my parents home, shaken but grateful to have escaped with my life. I offered a thousand "thank you's" to Heaven for helping me to escape what may have been certain death. The truck driver was later convicted of attempted kidnapping, assault and several other crimes. He went to prison for a long time. I have never stopped at a rest area again. From now on, it's restaurant restrooms for me!

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

What a story... So glad you made it out safely. Shaken but safe. You had a guardian angel watching you that day. Thank you for sharing. I use rest areas when I drive, and will be more careful from now on.

[@Heavenhrlpus]

You had the best weapon ever calling for our Lord Jesus! I can't imagine the fear you endured but Thank God you knew to go to the police station!

[@amyhall2202]

God Bless you, how SCAREY!! I AN SO GLAD YOU ESCAPED!!!!!

[@sammyday3341]

What a horrible thing to go through. I’m so sorry.

[@CH-1984]

Decades ago, I stopped at a rest area just off the Interstate. No one else was there, but while I was still in my car, a man pulled into the parking lot right beside my car. Right away I felt uneasy. He didn't exit his car, like most people would've. I drove away, I didn't want to take a chance.

[@carriebrannon8391]

I had something similar happen to me at Walmart when I was there shopping with a friend. This guy started following me, even when I went into the women's bras section... So I thought ok, I'll play! Lol I acted like I didn't even notice him but I kept an eye on him peripherally, out of the corner of my eye. I calmly strolled over to the garden center, picked up a huge set of hedge clippers, turned around, looked right at him and chopped the clippers together at him a couple times, like come on, I'll snip it off for ya! Lol He's went pale, turned tail and took off! I never saw him again!! Lol

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

That’s a good one! Thanks for sharing!

[@mayhargiss1210]

Oh my gosh I was fixing to post that I had a similar experience at Walmart scared the crap out of me but I had my son with me which is like 6'3 and I told him I said that guy behind us is following me and it's creeping me out my son turned around gave him a mean look and the guy split

[@fivelittlepeas]

Lol... smart!

[@lisagoldberg5178]

Unbelievable!🤣You should be writing fiction!

[@keshamico1]

Awesome!

[@user-jy7mc2gp2y]

As I have gotten older, I now understand why my parents were strict with me a female going out at night with friends. I hated it at the time but now it makes me love and appreciate them even more!

[@HBDuncan1]

And I always called them & let them know where I was & with who!

[@H4me7215]

Me2...had the best wisest mother.❤

[@ellenj8896]

A friend of mine was nearly kidnapped a month ago, and this kind of thing seems to be happening much more than usual. This friend is a beautiful young 18 year old, sweet girl. She was traveling, and while at a hotel, she saw a stray kitten and was trying to catch it so she could rescue it. As she went through the hotel parking lot, looking under cars and in bushes for the kitten, she saw a guy sitting in one of the parked cars. As she got closer to that car, the guy opened his car door a little. Then, as she got even closer while searching through the bushes, the guy fully opened his car door and lunged at her, trying to grab her. She leaped away and ran, likely saving her own life. She’s got good intuition and she’s smart, and that saved her. The creep at the Costco was most likely of evil intent, and you have very good intuition also.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

That’s so scary and I’m glad your friend is safe.

[@annam4313]

While running, a car stopped and two man tried to pull one of the girls into a car around 10 am during the school day and at the front of a group of us and at the front of ongoing cars. She managed to escape.. This incident happened during a group training exercise of Lauriston Girls School Girls. ($42,000 base fee/year school). Another incident happened during the after care program, around 5 pm. The program has been run so negligently that without supervision it allowed anybody who wanted to leave a building and go to use the exercise equipment's in another building to simply go and do so, while the school gate was open. The day of the sexual molestation, a man was hiding in the Jim's powder room, waiting for somebody to enter. Only two girls has been using the Jim at the time and the man sexually molested one of them. Police has been called and it was a major news item. Following this horror, changes has been implemented in a running of the after care program, additionally several families including mine took the girls out of the after care program,.

[@weekendatbernies2265]

Naive all the same. Wondering alone in any parking lot tying to rescue a kitten is a fools errand

[@shuumai]

​@@weekendatbernies2265 it wouldn't have been as bad if she were armed.

[@nosredna2]

@@weekendatbernies2265 And maybe the guy brought the kitten as a lure.

[@chrystalthornton1502]

In 1968 when I was a young woman I was in a shopping mall in Texas and I noticed a man. Wherever I went, there he was so when I was ready to go back to my car I kept an eye on him and when I approached my car I began to run and he was running too. I hopped in my car and nearly ran him over as I pulled out of parking lot. It never occurred to me to ask security to escort me to the car or report to police, but know I dodged a terrible fate by being alert.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks for sharing. Yes, I should have said yes to the offer of being escorted to my car afterwards… never too prudent, especially with kids.

[@daxmarshel]

ANY day a security officer won't escort someone out of a store is a day a security officer should lose their job. I'm so happy people now understand the security guard is there for YOUR protection, not the store's! Ask anytime...if they deny you, let someone know...that's their ONE JOB. I know it was '68, but it was their job then, too. I'm sorry that happened to you.

[@deb7518]

I had that EXACT same experience at a rest stop in Kentucky. It was a busy one on an interstate that unusually had a large gift shop, full of people, early afternoon. As I came out of the ladie's room, I noticed a guy in a work uniform of some sort looking straight at me. It was a little startling, but I just averted my gaze and entered the gift shop. As I browsed around, really just stretching my legs, I glanced up in the aisle of the store I was in and saw him standing, while people were milling about, staring right at me. I eased along, looked up again, and there he was again, looking at me. My radar went red alert then, so I snatched up the items I wanted, zipped through the checkout quickly, and power walked as fast as I could down a long sidewalk to the parking area, jumped in my car and pulled out as fast as I safely could. I wondered if I was being too keyed up over nothing...til I looked up as I was pulling back onto the highway and saw him literally running down the sidewalk to the parking lot, stop abruptly, looking around, (obviously for ME, I now knew!!) I'd apparently gotten through the checkout line and made it back to my car before he could keep track of me further in the crowd of tourists there. It was WEIRD! I'm pretty sure I dodged something bad there!

[@R-hm4ic]

One time someone was following me in a truck and I did a fast u turn, then put my clicker on left turn, and then turned right. I lost him! Him and his old, beat up truck was REALLY scary looking!!! I've been freaked out ever since! Avoid parking next to vans that open on the side. I once crawled over my center console to avoid going to my driver door that was next to one. I don't care how weird I look!

[@heathermetz6576]

Merci Beaucoup Anne. Costco is a big store and when I go, I have my Costco card ready to scan, no cart since I have a bag for my few groceries and away I go. My dad taught me to make a list, memorize the store layout, go get your items, don't dawdle, pay for your items and leave. My step-mom taught me to carry my car keys in my hand with the keys between each finger as a weapon. Situational Awareness and your GUT instincts ALWAYS work. Glad you and your girls are safe.

[@jennydenston5680]

Its not just men behaving oddly. I had to walk home from work one night when my car wouldn't start. I felt someone was walking behind me, turned around and a woman was almost on my heals. I crossed the road to get away from her and a few minutes later she was shouting at me. Thankfully I was near to houses where I knew some people that would have taken me the rest of the way home. Proves you have to be alert where ever you are and be alert to women as well as men

[@brookebenton8192]

I had this happen at a Burlington store in San Antonio a couple years ago. This conspicuous looking guy in his 20's kept hovering over by the my daughter and myself. She was three at the time. I was looking at womens razors and face washes etc. It was out of place for him. He had nothing he was buying and kept pretending he was looking at things, but kept glancing at us and hovering randomly...slowly inching toward us. I picked my daughter up and loudly said "let's go find daddy." Daddy wasn't with us but it worked. The creepo walked out of the store right after.

[@ireadnewton]

This exact thing happened to me outside of Dothan, Alabama, in a very small town with one stoplight at the one and only small grocery store. I was by myself and about halfway through the store, I noticed a 30-something year old man who was well dressed in jeans and boots who just kept appearing on the same aisle I was on who then turned and walked the opposite direction when he realized I had seen him. He was also had no cart and nothing in his hands. I checked out and while I was loading my groceries, he walked to his car and then followed me out of the parking lot. I did NOT go home. Instead, I kept driving while he followed me while staying pretty far back behind me. I finally made a turn back toward town at a curve in the road and lost him. I, too, kept second guessing myself, but I KNOW what he was doing. Be careful, ladies!

[@HBDuncan1]

I led one guy like that right to the police station near my home ! I told the police I was being followed ! Then I called my mom & told her to open her garage door- made sure I was not followed again ! Police back then told me there was nothing get could do ? I was mad too ! But I hope it’s better now! We at least have cell phones ! Good idea to carry some kind of spray device as well depending what is legal in your state!

[@H4me7215]

Smart...I am now more clever n smarter when I have to shop. Not only being aware of who is near me but trying to follow me and I do not go home..but will head off to the police station or even a fire department.

[@robinbrumbaugh9857]

I was alone in a Walgreens and had the same feeling about another “customer”. When checking out I asked the cashier if she knew the gentleman. I told her he was acting oddly. She asked me if I wanted an escort to my car which I definitely did and got. The guy left right after that without buying anything. I know in my gut he was up to no good. Be careful Ladies

[@lkreinmiller-author]

One of the things taught in women self-defense classes is turn and stare at people who make you uncomfortable. Let them know you have looked at them, that you could describe them. This is proven to deter a lot of people who have mischief in mind. You will never know, but when with kidlets it is always wise to err on the side of caution.

[@user-jy7mc2gp2y]

Yes.. make them aware that we know they are there!

[@jjsifo1]

Happened to me,I'm a retired cop, two guys following me. I am a male but anybody policemen or police woman or civilians carrying concealed gun or anybody not carrying a gun can surprise the stalker by just turning around and play offense face him or them look at them in the eyes and just plain ask them are you following me ? can i help you ?It has worked for me and no guns were pulled out.And oops ,no guns allowed ?did not see the sign.

[@lkreinmiller-author]

@ , we were taught in women self-defense classes to stare at someone you think is following you. Let them know you see them. I wonder if whipping your phone out and taking their picture would be good or put you in more danger.

[@mandykaminksy1279]

I totally think your gut instinct was right. I live here in Texas and have heard these stories over and over. I’m located in East Texas and although we don’t have a Costco we do have many Walmarts and most are located very close to highways. It makes it the perfect storm! Grab a kid and head towards the highway and vanish within minutes. Everyone needs to just keep sharing their stories and continue warning people. Thank you so much for sharing your story. Your video just happened to pop up on my KZbin today.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks Mandy. We have a property in East Texas and I go there often. It gives me a safer feeling than the big city of Houston.

[@mandykaminksy1279]

@ oh I can totally understand that. We live outside the city limits and between Tyler and Kilgore. I would love to get further out. I’ve been here 19 years, but originally from the Dallas/Ft. Worth area so I am very aware of what city living is like. I much prefer the country although it’s not much country anymore. I’m glad that you and your girls are safe! Thank you for sharing your story! Hopefully others will watch and be vigilant!

[@liurodriguez5964]

Don’t go home, if this happened inside the store go straight to the Managers office and ask for help!

[@suepalmer4726]

The sign of the Times. It is tragic to think that we have to guard our children like this because there’s so many predators out there. Please God clean this darkness away.

[@sickofcrap8992]

In Jesus' name I pray. Amen and amen! 🙏✝️🙏✝️🙏✝️

[@lisacarden1309]

In Jesus Name Amen 🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼❤️🙏🏼

[@maynardgreenhouse]

These things have always happened we just have better ways to get it out there

[@A-Grammie-On-the-ROCK]

He is going to. The Bible clearly tells us !

[@PeaceinJESUS24]

Yes! In Jesus' Name amen! ✝️🙏🏼

[@genoitaly04]

If your in Texas, take advantage of being Strapped! It’s your right... 2nd Amendment! Protect your family! And train train train. 🇺🇸Semper Fi

[@kevinb3030]

Yes !!! It's the equalizer

[@winkyhere8697]

But... *not* in a location where guns are *not* allowed. Like Costco.. Maybe you missed that part. Guys, *please* hold your brethren *accountable* for showing *any* creepy behavior. Even a *smidgen* of it being deemed as somehow "acceptable" (i.e. "locker room banter") *encourages dangerous goons* to hurt us - or *worse.* It's *why* the nightly news seems to almost always include the name of the *latest* dead/missing female. 😢😢😢😢😢😢😢😢 *Thank you* for your support/protection (to *just* the guys who *deserve* such gratitude), from the world of girls & women who *don't yet* have *bigger muscles capable* of *warding off* menacing mashers. If *this BS* keeps up, though, we *may* grow them. It won't much matter that most of you *don't* find those attractive on a gal, if our very survival depends upon such *evolutionary changes.*

[@hapahaole9819]

Costco needs to hire Security! All of them

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Very true. They have their employees at the entrance but no security personnel.

[@SandraAnnEvans]

That’s a GREAT IDEA . . . They seem to have fewer and fewer accessible employees these days.

[@LML262]

Costco is a dreadful place period. Shoppers are so self absorbed and rude. We got a gold membership and totally regret it. Way too many people and that makes it easy to get away with nefarious intentions. Costco is all about the money without any regards to safety for their patrons. Thank God you are safe along with your girls! May GOD keep His hedge of protection around your family. Happy Thanksgiving to you and all ❤

[@AimeeJeaneElizabeth]

@@LML262 the whole place sucks to shop and work at.

[@ShalomShock]

Keep your head on a swivel and off your cell phone! Years ago, at my son's clinic in Phoenix. We were outside waiting for our medical cab. I felt that we were being watched. Everytime I looked up, the guy watching us looked away. I realized that something was wrong. After a while, he ran across the street and stood 15 feet away from us. He started digging in his cart. I saw the but of a weapon so I prayed, looked directly at him stood on my tippy toes and dug in my baby bag as if I had a weapon. He looked at me from the corner of his eye beneath the shirt tied around his head. At that moment, I realized that this man wasn't a random homeless person he was the Baseline Rapist Serial Killer. At that moment a women was walking towards us with her son and disrupted him. I called the hotline, they went back and looked at cameras and had determined that it was him. I was so angry. He could have shot me and left my special needs child fending for himself in Phoenix, AZ where we had no family. When they arrested him, it was not far from Saint Joseph's Hospital. I was relieved to say the least.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

What a story! Glad you were safe!

[@student1621]

You did exactly the right thing. Everybody who has this sort of thing -even if you are not with children - MUST report the incident to the store manager. You never know how sinister that person might be.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you!

[@tammieaf2712]

Maybe it's incidents like this that has brought on the card scanning at the door? They're less likely to commit crimes when they have to show identification to enter the establishment.

[@im-gi2pg]

@@tammieaf2712The reason for card scanning is the age old reason: 💰

[@texasmimi5566]

You are a wise woman, wiser than many who "go along to get along". I worked in a prison, the general public are so naive about criminals, both locked up and out in society.

[@SV-nk2we]

My niece had the same thing happen in a grocery store. She called her husband to come get her because there were two guys, one at each entrance as she checked out. They had followed her throughout the whole store without a cart. Her husband is a permitted gun owner. They left when they saw him with her. Even worse is that before the husband arrived, she told two store employees and a manager and none of them did anything to help.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks for sharing this story. I would not go back to shop to that store again given the employees/manager attitude.

[@winkyhere8697]

​@@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas I'd call that store's head office to explain *why* they'd *lost* my business, as well!

[@C_Holloway]

If I was an employee there, ma'am, you can rest assured I would absolutely drop what I was doing and stay with you until your husband arrived. Given the state of what's been going on in this country lately, we ladies gotta look out for each other! ☺️

[@kelleyfolsom6902]

I've started wearing body cameras when I go out now. These are not hidden, but are mini police body cameras, one for the front and one for the back. I attach them to the strap of my purse. People pretty much avoid you once they notice the cameras.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Interesting idea. I am sure people are avoiding the cameras!

[@HopefulEmpath]

Hmm, great idea! Thanks.

[@Donna-zc9ii]

​@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas You also should get yourself one of those little personal alarms. They come on a key chain. Just pull and a very high loud siren, for lack of a better word goes off and everyone around you is alerted. Also this, when you are putting all those grocery's in the back of your car, your mind is on doing that and they come up behind you. Last year a few women were assaulted, robbed while doing just that. I'm in California. They work in small groups, rob women as they get out of their cars in Costco and other grocery stores. Gypsys work in twos and threes. Get an alarm and try to keep your girls at home if you can.

[@desiderata333]

Where an I buy these?

[@ohkay7418]

I had video of a thief taking back what he stole from me. Cops said said we don't know who that is do you know who that is. So f off

[@carlsenlifeafter60carlsen11]

When your gut tells you there’s something wrong, there’s something wrong . What happened was you’re an empath and you felt his negative energy. When that happens and you feel someone’s negative energy run. You were right to report it and tell them I’m so happy you’re safe.😊🇺🇸

[@angelbulldog4934]

I'm an empath, too. You're right. There will never be a time or situation where I don't listen to my gut. Even if I'm wrong, I'm safe.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

thank you!

[@tammieaf2712]

Every time I ignored my gut feeling, something bad happened. Usually uncomfortable situations, except for the life threatening one. I now know that feeling is a warning sign! It's no longer me thinking I need to help them, it's now a red flag that I should get away from the situation ASAP!

[@sullyway51]

Empathy is a thing for sure but "gut feeling" is more procognative. Empathy is sharing of feeling between two persons whereas precognition is something we all have like a built in broadband radar. You know something ain't right but nothing specific. We are all born with it but most don't learn to pay attention to it. While in the service you learn to pay attention to it as it is the basis for our sense of "Spacial Awareness or minding our 6".

[@singerjo5791]

Well, I don’t sense someone’s negative energy. I am led by the Holy Spirit. No new age bunk.

[@LuluVilla-i3k]

I’m glad you all are safe, and as well I have a similar feeling at Costco-just last week in CA. Someone would say I was paranoid, but better safe than sorry.

[@mariakelly2146]

Grab your cell phone and get pictures of him. I got stalked in my 20s and glad I listened to my gut. I was stalked on the street by a guy in a VW bug. I was walking to thrift stores and he was following me in his car from store to store. Finally went to a manager in a store and he went outside his store and the dude was standing behind the door. He called the cops and we both gave statements...don't think they ever caught him, unfortunately. No cell at that time that took photos. I seriously believe he was a serial killer. He was that methodical. Also, never engage strange men in public at all. I know not all men are bad but there are no signs for the ones who are so I don't trust any of them.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks for sharing your story. Right, next time, I will have my phone ready to take a picture!

[@daxmarshel]

Good gut instinct, and hey, I don't trust ANYONE, and I'm not even female. And anyone can be harmed at any time. Everyone listen to that lil voice when you're scared! It's there for a reason. Stay well, all.

[@TeresaHill-tn1cy]

True why didn’t you take a picture? Hmmm.

[@LaLadybug2011]

@@TeresaHill-tn1cybecause maybe she was in her 20's BEFORE cell phones or before cell phones had cameras in them.

[@unpluggeddogdreams]

Ted Bundy drove a Volkswagen.

[@susanmayer9791]

You did the right thing! Your intuition probably saved you. I had a scary episode several years ago. I was 60 years old and I went to the mall to do some last minute shopping before Christmas. I was in one of the department stores and about to leave. I hadn't been feeling well, I was laden with shopping bags and I was actually limping from a sore leg. I looked like a target! As I walked toward the exit I saw a man enter. He glanced at me as I passed. He was average looking, dark hair, scruffy beard, olive skin. I just took note of him, passed him and turned to open the door with my backside because I had so many packages. Looking up I saw the man coming toward me as if to leave the store! I thought, that's weird he had just walked in! It was SO weird my first thought was to go back into the store. As I turned, the alarm went off. I remember one of the sales ladies had said that might happen with one of my purchases and not to worry and just ignore it. Well, it was an excuse to go back in and not alert the man I was suspicious of him. I walked to the next door in the vestibule and reentered the store. Guess what! The man turned around and came BACK into the store! I walked up to one of the checkout lines and waited. The man was walking around nonchalantly looking at the clothes in the women's section. He looked up periodically to see if I was still in line. Turning away from the line I melted into a group of people and went to the first floor of the department store. I walked around wondering what to do and if I reported it what proof did I have? I just wanted to go home. 15 minutes later I went back upstairs. I didn't see the guy. There was a couple walking in front of me so I got as close as I could to them without it looking weird and went out the door. It was dark out. When the couple veered off I walked as fast as I could to my car and left. I tell women, trust your gut, don't think it's all in your imagination! Take precautions. If your waiting for an elevator and there is a man in there when the door opens and you feel uncomfortable just walk away and get another elevator. If you're in an elevator and the door opens and a man walks in, get off on that floor. Women can't be afraid to "hurt someone's feelings". Just stay alert and safe!

[@HBDuncan1]

Also it does help to tell a worker to call security to escort you & they can stop this person & arrest him for stalking ! Maybe even SAVE another victim from harm ! Staying alert is great but sometimes people need to alert the business , employees, & or customers when they’re being harassed, stalked & followed ! Why allow them to get away with it & place another innocent person or child in danger or onto their pathway of evil intentions?

[@agrotta1650]

Tell everyone the Gospel of Salvation 😊

[@Wisdomforthehour]

There's a strange epidemic happening where people are stalking, mostly men stalking women. They're VERY obvious about it too. It's super strange!

[@A-Grammie-On-the-ROCK]

It's NOT STRANGE !! WHY IS IT STRANGE ?? MIDDLE EASTERN MEN WHO HAVE RECENTLY COME INTO OUR COUNTRIES HAVE BARBARIC IDEOLOGIES. WOMEN ARE DOGS, SLAVES,LOWER THAN MALES, ETC DO NOT BE NAIVE !!

[@KarmaLyser]

It's not that strange. They all work at the Aloha Snackbar or for South American pharmaceutical vendors. Where they come from, women and girls are commodities.

[@mstina7346]

Better to be safe and called paranoid than be carefree and then abused and/or dead.

[@Calhorsey]

Agree! Always trust your gut.

[@ndobbins58]

I have a feeling that you were right. I travel alone too and try to be aware of my surroundings. I have asked Walmart personnel to walk out with me when I’d be in the store at night. I no longer go out at night. I agree with you, I think he was probably after the girls. I’ve gotten to where I pray before I leave home and ask God to please watch over me when I’m out. Please be safe hon. 🙏🏼

[@LilyGazou]

I ask god an escort if it’s dark. Lots of women have been robbed in the parking lots here. We’re busy loading groceries and kids.

[@reglook1]

@@LilyGazou Getting a human to walk out with u is a better idea.

[@lb6110]

@@reglook1 Nope!

[@reglook1]

They dumb as Hell.

[@jenniferoceanhomestead]

Another reason I don’t like being in public places where it’s busy … I don’t trust anyone ! He could have been listening to get info … many times they have ppl waiting outside so they can let them know who to target as they walk out like this person is alone no husband & 2 young girls they can slowly drive by as you are walking to the car & grab them ! I’m always on my guard all the time … can’t be too careful !!!

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

You are right. We would be more vulnerable in the parking lot. I will be more prepared next time for sure.

[@Starfish2145]

You sound paranoid. It’s good to be alert, no way to live your life.

[@jenniferoceanhomestead]

@@Starfish2145 the way the world is right now … if you aren’t always on your guard you end up a victim ! Better safe than dead or trafficked like hundreds of millions of Americans

[@DiNY-u9k]

The cold hard truth is that women and children are prey. I'm in New York and I have also been followed several times. I have had men follow me down each aisle then get in line behind me. I know that they were following me. I have had them stop right next to me and pretend to be looking at something on the shelf. One man did this several times in one store. He just happened to be interested in every single thing that I was interested in. What a coincidence. This is common all over the United States. You aren't the first woman who I have seen saying this. Everyone, use caution. Yes, trust your gut, your vibes. If it feels like something is wrong, something is wrong. This could save your life or the life of another woman or a child.

[@unpluggeddogdreams]

That's what loss prevention security people do. And most of them are so obvious. Maybe they think it will let would be shoplifters know they are being watched. Many businesses are shutting their doors due to the massive theft. The shoplifters know that they can take what they want because no one will stop them. But always be aware of your surroundings and confront suspicious people in public so they know you have no fear and will defend yourself. It looks like this game is ending so there aren't a lot of people left that are real. Seems like most are automatons running low level programs including violence. If you do ever need to defend yourself, you might not want law enforcement involved. This world is completely upside down where bad deeds are acceptable and good people are punished for doing the right thing. Stay safe everyone, looks like we're going to need to sharpen our survival skills for real.

[@DiNY-u9k]

@@unpluggeddogdreams There are also weird guys some of whom are kidnapping women. My daughter was a loss prevention officer for several years. She wasn't weird, following them all around the store while acting suspicious. It just doesn't work that way. Both exist. I have had store detectives follow me because I read ingredients and I have had many weird men follow me. The vibes you get tell you everything you need to know. Whether you realize it or not, you are picking up on small cues such as facial expressions and body movements. Weird is weird.

[@wendymarciano891]

Sad days we are living in, so glad you listened to your instincts 🙏 And don’t listen to those who will call you racist.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

@@wendymarciano891 Thank you Wendy! I appreciate your support.

[@sapphirerain70]

This has happened to me twice. I was being followed in walmart through several aisles. I asked one of the cashiers if someone could walk me to my car. Another time was in a Gabe’s store. An Indian man came up to me and started talking to me, I thought he’s just being friendly and kept shopping, only he came around the corner in the next isle and was asking me if I was single etc etc.. it was a bit uncomfortable so I walked to the check out in front and saw him with a few other men and a woman with a hijab. I took off to my car and immediately locked my doors and went home. Years ago I would go to the store at night, thinking they would be less crowded..I will never go at night again.

[@denisejones1863]

Always get home and lock doors before dark. Now with Daylight savings time many kids are out past dark with sports etc. We know child trafficking's is on the rise, our kids are the target. We need to keep them close.

[@Saibikoho]

@@denisejones1863 White skin is prized all around the world. Blond hair is a premium.

[@seekingjoynow1722]

I had my wallet stolen in a coffee shop.I had the feeling someone was watching me. First a man then a woman sitting across from me. Found out these thieves usually work in pairs. The really sad part was they were an older couple. It caused a lot of problems replacing my IDs and credit cards. They charged a lot of money but I was reimbursed. Always careful now. Yes, trust your gut…..

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Yes, be careful and prepared. And trust your guts. I learned my lesson on this one.

[@sunshinelizard1]

Let them know you know they are following you. In addition to my story below, years earlier, I was coming home with my 2 young kids in the car. I noticed someone appeared to be following me since the last stop I had made before heading home. I pulled into my driveway and the kids got out, the other driver pulled into a culdesac that was about 50 feet up and on the other side of the street and parked there. I brought the kids in the house and then ran out with a pad of paper and a pen (this was before cell phones) and looked straight at him in his truck and started writing down his license plate. That good took off like a bat out of hell and that confirmed to me that he had been following. My thought was that the two young children would be out playing while the parent put the groceries away and he would grab them. There had been several kidnapping attempts and one kidnapping in that. city that year. LET THEM KNOW YOU SEE THEM AND ARE RECORDING THEM!

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

How scary! Glad you were all safe! Thanks for sharing.

[@LuciYah.]

THIS LADY IS ABSOLUTELY CORRECT ONE day at Costco Pearland, I was watching a Costco worker pretending to fold clothes. When she saw me looking at her unusual behavior she approached me and let me know that she was keeping her eye on a man that she observed following a mother with a preteen daughter. The female worker approached the mother and let her know that the man had been following her and eying her daughter. The mother let the Costco lady know that her husband is a police Sargent and had warned her that there were incidents reported if men targeting young girls in stores, they follow the family to theirs cars, someone waiting follows them home. Days later per the police, the child is abducted. Where can you be safe? Trust in THE MOST HIGH. Be aware of your surroundings always. If you think you are being followed while driving, try to drive to a police station. BE SAFE

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you for sharing.

[@islandwitt1]

When my son was young and just toddling along I would use either a baby backpack to carry him - him strapped in & strapped onto me. Or a colorful child harness clipped to a strap around my wrist. He loved the freedom of not being held, seeing everything over my head, walking with out holding hands, and I enjoyed being hands free while still very safe & secure. Some people gave me dirty looks over the harness, don’t care, it worked well for both he & I, so screw them. He’s 35 and military, he protects his old mama now. 🥰

[@debpratt52]

That was the same era that I used a harness for my son. He was about 3-years-old and very quick. I would use it in malls where there were second floors, at fairs, and on vacation. At that time, there were many kidnappings going on. My husband and I didn't care what anyone thought, because we loved our son and wanted him safe.

[@floraldays5642]

@@debpratt52 Same here.

[@Danni.D]

I never understood the criticism of parents using something to protect their children.

[@lb6110]

@islandwitt1 - Awesome!!

[@grannyllama617]

No shopping cart is a warning sign.

[@annas7715]

I do not use a shopping cart in about half of my shopping trips in Costco. It helps to avoid buying too much (our household has downsized to two persons recently).

[@SusanHarrell530]

Depends. I used to just carry what I could during the "pandemic" to avoid touching a shopping cart that was germ laden.

[@Sorriel.J]

im not sure how Costco is being we don't have them here. if its bigger like sams club then ya a lack of cart would be odd being its a bulk shopping place i do however shop without a cart if im in the store for just like 3 to 5 things. i will just carry it to checkout.

[@Yaya2214CJ]

​@@SusanHarrell530 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@SusanHarrell530]

@@Yaya2214CJ Well, if you're immune compromised, you do your best not to catch anything.

[@jessicahayes9788]

I just discovered your video. I too live in the Great State of Texas and one thing I always remember is my ABC': Always Be Carrying. I too have a blue eyed, tow-head sweet, beautiful baby girl. I often see people admiring her from a distance. God gave us instincts to protect our children and I'm so glad yours is very strong and you listened to it. Like you, I've traveled to over 41 countries and I was born In a developing country. It's unfortunate so many have entered our country that wasn't vetted. It took me 9 years to get permission as a child to enter the U.S. That's all I'll say about that. Gee, I better add this disclosure, no, I'm not saying the guy may be illegal but he could be. Praying for you and your family's safety.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you! I will be better prepared next time for sure! And snap a picture or video on site!

[@grannyllama617]

I had six men.. all Iranian looking.. follow me and my two granddaughters around Walmart.. they were looking at my blond six year old granddaughter. I really think they were planning something. I went to the bathroom for over 30 minutes to lose them. I also did not go out of the main door.. I went out through the garden center. Scary.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Yes, very scary. I would have asked for the security person and to be escorted back to my car in your situation. Some of the Walmarts around here have police cars patrolling pretty frequently as well.

[@Hatbox948]

Get security to walk you out if you have to.

[@robertgadziola1601]

Thanks to this two creeps Biden and Harris for creating this.

[@aengusmacnaughton1375]

@@robertgadziola1601 -- I know, right! It's amazing how all of the immigrants in the US prior to Biden are all law-abiding normal citizens, but then Biden put out the invite to all of the perverts to come to the US....

[@lilliearvizu9447]

@@robertgadziola1601And yet you voted for the demented criminal rapist felon Trump! FAFO!

[@claudialunden3691]

This happened to me decades ago. Twice. Once in the grocery store, where I looked him in the eye while oozing hostility. He hurried out of the store. Then at night in the parking lot, a guy started to approach me. I put up my hand, yelled stop. He said he needed help with his car. I told him to ask a man, go to the gas station right across the street. Don’t ever approach a woman alone at night. Always have a plan. Be aware of what’s going on around you and never ignore that sixth sense.

[@Betty-my3tw]

This same thing happened to someone I know who was in a store with her two young daughters. She felt she was being followed. YOU DID THE RIGHT THING. Have eyes at the back of your head these days ... especially with your kids. So much child-snatching and trafficking going on these days. Take care!

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you!

[@reglook1]

@@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas on the news they said their is not as much kidnapping as people think, it's just that when it happens it's overpublisized.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

@ I sure hope so!

[@jolynn2271]

Keep alert, intuition is important. I'm glad you followed this up with customer service. You never know when you might be helping someone else. God Bless😮❤😂

[@mysticzyoga]

I've noticed this in Walmarts here in Arizona and heard from other women online that grocery stores seem to be as dangerous for single women as any area where kidnappings happen! Dangerous when walking to your car with groceries. Keep your awareness about you!

[@ccpperrett7522]

Ask to be escorted by store attendant or security.

[@garypesci746]

Do your grocery and other shopping online and have things delivered, then you don't have to go out and there's nothing to worry about.

[@ladytess23]

Thank you for the reminder. On a similar note, please always remember to lock your car doors when you are driving around. One of my daughters had a guy run up to her car when she was stopped at a red light. He pulled the passenger side door open. She fortunately was able to drive away before he actually got into her car. Needless to say she will never drive anywhere without making sure all the doors are locked. Be safe everyone!!!!

[@ItIsYourMom]

Yes! And pay attention! When my son was little and we were at a stop at an intersection, all of a sudden I realized he had the window down and was talking to a man asking for directions!!

[@lb6110]

@ladytess23 - I have never had this happen to me, but have heard it happening to others; for the same reason, lock your vehicle doors while fueling up at gas stations.

[@SimplyJanHomestead]

Anne, I'm so glad you followed your gut! Good job! He bolted as soon as you turned the corner! I'm so happy you & the girls are ok!

[@usa2342]

Start describing the person who follows you to someone on the phone or imagery phone out loud. How they look, skin color, height, nationality, what they wear and every details. So the follower hears you and people around you. Don't be afraid to look cookoo.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Very good advice. Thank you!

[@blusnuby2]

A retired Lt. Colonel (male) was shopping at his Costco in the Phoenix, Az area last month & (knows) he was being followed thru that store by 3 to 5 asian (Chinese ?) men---all well dressed & having a military bearing about them. The LtC stopped, turned around & STARED them down & asked them WTH they were doing ! Lady, NEVER let anyone or any store tell you you can`t be armed. It is only a sign. Your 'tool' is concealed. What they don`t see won`t bother anybody....You have the (inherent right) to defend yourself (anywhere)---especially if you are with your kids ! FYI: 20 to 30 MILLION un-vetted 'migrants' have entered America in the last 4 years, alone, many are (fighting aged men) from countries that are 'not our friend.' Prisons in Central & South America have released some very bad guys & told them to "Go North & don`t come back---or else." All those 'Adam Henrys' are now walking our streets.....WAKE UP !!!

[@bertkilborne6464]

I got ripped off by some guys like the ones described by the OP It was in a state park in CA The guy was scoping out my stuff by claiming he was picking up kindling for their campfire. And he was with a group of about 8 , on a campsite about 50 yd away. I walked away for a few minutes and a bunch of my stuff disappeared. I'd become complacent because I've been living in a community where we're fairly trusting.

[@ishabellanamthrak1015]

My 380 is always with me ....old swamp woman here...

[@pinkpigletparker8703]

Since we know they don't care about our safety, what is the reason Costco did this? Suspect to me. They don't want us to be able to protect ourselves makes it easy for things to happen, right? Costco acted communist during covid and I never went back.

[@martinhafner2201]

Costco is a no gun zone, legally enforceable by the membership contract you signed. It's a real pain in the ass.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

@@martinhafner2201 unfortunately I think you are right…

[@suzanzaman7942]

glad your safe, Say a prayer over yourself and family before going out, no matter where your going, daily. We don't live in normal times.

[@deborahlarson2650]

You were accurate. I noticed when a woman left a little girl in the cart a man was headed to her. I knew for the same reasons you mentioned that I needed to get to the girl & wait until the woman came back. The woman was the babysitter. I saw the man, again, watching the girl. I went to the manager & pointed him out. He was tall & easy to see. (with no basket or items) He disappeared before I left. But, I kept my eyes open in the oarking lot too.

[@lb6110]

@deborahlarson2650 - I also hope you had an "educational chat" with this babysitter about being more cognizant.

[@DilanBerry]

I was walking to the park holding hands with my daughter, while pushing my son in the stroller. As I was getting ready to cross the street a woman pushing a boy in a stroller started making small talk, then started asking me all kinds of personal questions. She asked my daughter what her name is, and introduced the boy she was nannying. Thankfully my daughter is bashful and didn’t answer. As we got closer to the park the nanny asked again what my daughter’s name is, my daughter just shook her head no. Then the boy spoke and asked “what’s his name” as he pointed to my son. Every time I stopped to try to put some distance between us, she would also stop and wait for us. I couldn’t get rid of her. When we got to the park I felt a little relief seeing it was full of people. Then the overly friendly nanny introduced me to another nanny, and told the other nanny my son’s age. When the other nanny heard my son’s age she gasped and smiled then they both got really giddy, jumped and hugged. It was very weird. I took my son out of the stroller and put him in the front pack, so I could have both of my babies close at all times. As I was putting the front pack around my waist the boy walked up to me and asked “why are you putting him in there?” Then the nanny came to me and said she put down a blanket under the tree with some toys, and told me I was more than welcome to put my son there to play while my daughter was on the playground. I thanked her but politely declined. A few minutes later she walked over to me and mentioned the blanket again. I said thanks but he’s staying with me. After a while most of the kids started to leave the park, so we left too. Down the street from the park is a small store where I stopped to grab the kids a snack and drink for the walk home. As I left the store I noticed a white car stopped in the lane about 20ft from the store. I didn’t think anything of it, until a couple walked around from the side of the store to enter where I was exiting, which made the white car flip a u-turn and speed off. Thankfully we made it home safely. I’m never going back to that park unless my 6’5” husband is with us. I should have just stopped walking to the park and turned around the moment I felt uncomfortable. Hopefully sharing this keeps others safe. It’s not just men preying on women and children.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

What a story! So many red flags... Glad you were alert and trusted your guts here. Stay safe out there.

[@CarlaHipkins]

If you do missing person searches, you will notice in cities and towns the highest concentration of young people go missing near Interstates.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Wow ... that Costco is right on a very big and busy interstate ...

[@CarlaHipkins]

@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas Yes, teach your girls to be careful for the rest of their lives. I as an almost sixty year old woman was followed by a Hispanic man at Walmart near I - 35 in OKC. Hispanic women saw what he was doing and started laughing at me, absolutely no doubt he was followig me around and around veggie bins, down isles, double backed. It was ridiculously obvious, he stopped when I stopped faced him and pulled out my phone to record him. He left the store. Women have been targeted by women pretending to need help or gas at interstate gas stations as well and try to pull them in a van. Others with children experienced the same as you, being followed and they normally have a car waiting. Human body, (organs) is worth over $100k so everyone needs to be careful.

[@soniahempel4461]

Thank you for putting this out. Most people need to be made aware of this. They are not looking around and checking things like they should be. This is happening and will keep happening. It is something they are doing now so especially if you have more than one child or you're young with one child. Please be aware you are a Target wherever you are in any state. Please look around you and find help when you notice them. Get their picture with your phone if you can. But if you can't just start screaming and yelling get away from me. Draw attention to them whatever you need to do. Thank you for this video

[@Kikithecat1914]

YOU ARE ABSOULTY RIGHT ..... PLEASE CONTINUE TO WATCH YOUR CHILDREN. WE ARE LIVING IN VERY CRITICAL DANGEROUS DAYS. GOOD JOB MOM !!!!!!!

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you! I am on my guards now!

[@faye2592]

You are absolutely right! Kudos to you on keeping you and your babies safe! I am a supervisor of college-age students, mostly young women, but some young men, too, and they can tell you, I'm hyper-sensitive to their safety. I often tell them to please not walk alone at night, always be aware of their surroundings any time of day, always trust their guts, and it is far better/safer to appear to be rude than to be nice. It could mean their life.

[@lindalarson5468]

This happened to a friend of mine in another state except she was followed all around the store by a woman who also did not have a cart or any items at all, and the woman was talking softly into her phone while following my friend. When she went out to the car to unload her groceries the person was still behind her and suddenly some men got out of a white van. She threw her stuff in the truck and never broke eye contact with them, jumped into her truck and roared away. So her eye contact and fierceness apparently changed their mind as she did not panic or appear fearful but made clear that she was going to fight. Costco took her complaint (after she left the store) very seriously. Keep your head on a swivel and don't hesitate to go find someone who works at the store and report it at the time it is happening.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

wow… thanks for sharing this story.

[@XavierAndFriendsOfficalChannel]

Another reminder to be aware of your surroundings. Practice at home with your family, get them to change tiny things in your environment when you’re not looking, then trying to spot differences in the room etc. also, go outside together, and come back in and try to guess all the things you all noticed while outside. Maybe record a video of your surroundings, so after you guess everything you remember, have a look at the video and see what you got right and what you didn’t notice. This will definitely help you to practice knowing your surroundings and being more aware when you are out. I live in a very small country community, I still do my best to be aware. Not paranoid…just aware!! 💪🥰👍 Take care, try not to worry too much. Jen. Watching and praying from Australia. ❤️🙏🕊️❤️

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you Jen!

[@mcrow9599]

COSTCO HAS CAMERAS Get a copy of COSTCO footage to show this creep following your little girls. And report this to your police department.

[@ladyhawk6999]

I had an experience yesterday on our farm, I was in the driveway in my ranger atv on the phone , this guy drives by , parks several yards away and came at me very aggressively!! I was alone but I had a gun , but didnt know if he was armed or what his intentions were. It was very weird! And he was dressed weird! Now while I did have a gun , I chose to retreat because I could. But now I have the stress of will he be back . If it had been thirty below out and the snow made it difficult, it may have ended different. I am Currently trying to locate this person as I know the vehicle and there are known people in our area who are violent criminals and thieves. There were recent break ins near by our farm. The word is out! People are watching . Too bad the police are more interested in entrapping hard working farmers at the local bar or traffic violations to gain their quota than protecting and serving.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

That’s scary! Which area are you at? I imagine it’s the country, rural. But yet, not safe… Brrrr… Stay safe out there!

[@MAEURASTAR]

God Bless you. Lock & load

[@damonmelendez856]

The Civil Rights Act of 1965 gave Blaxks the ability to live anywhere they want.

[@reglook1]

@@damonmelendez856 How do you know they are black?

[@tanyadrake5674]

I don’t go out after dark either😮

[@lovenature7823]

Your intuition was SPOT ON. Turning around and looking at his face was such a courageous and perfect action. Your instincts are excellent. You're a terrific "mama bear". Glad you and your girls are safe, You kept them safe. A Veteran.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you so much for your support! I learned a lot about this experience and things I would do differently if this ever happens again.

[@vixxenreigns]

I had an incident while driving my car with my special needs son with me a few days ago. In short I had gone by this guy in the other lane and me and cars in front of me were all changing lanes to go around a slow moving truck. This guy was way back when I went to make my lane change and he was in a dark vehicle with NO headlights on with it being very overcast and starting to get darker. When I changed back into the other lane he was on my ass and threw his drink that slammed into the middle of my rear window and he started tailgating and following me. I hit my brake when the drink hit my window and I swear I thought he hit me right before that and tapped my bumper. He was flashing his headlights on and off and tailing me so at the end of the turn lane I got back into that lane so he couldn't continue to follow me home. I went to the police department and had an officer call me which thank Gaia it happened to be one of the officers I knew since they used to work with my Dad. He told me I did good since I got the first 3 plate numbers, make and model of the car and that the guy appeared to be a Hispanic male between the ages of 30-35. This all was happening at highway speeds and he was tailgating that close to be ble yo make his drink hit my rear window. I have severe anxiety and C-PTSD and am extremely hyperaware so I notice things most don't. I felt like my son and I were in danger and this guy would have followed me to wherever I was going and hurt us if I stopped. I am installing front and rear dash cameras and the last two days of school I took a different vehicle because I have seen this guy before on that stretch of road. If you feel like you're being followed, whether it is in a store or you're already in your vehicle, NEVER drive to your home. Go to the nearest police department or other law enforcement office or report it to store management or security. The officer I knew told me that this stuff is happening all the time now. I have NEVER been in an altercation like this before and I have been driving for over 30 years. This happened 3 days after my 49th birthday this past Wednesday.

[@lb6110]

@vixxenreigns - Good to know you and your son are safe and hoping you were still able to have an enjoyable birthday.

[@waterlily8506]

Yes, your girls are very precious and attract a lot of attention. I always take pictures of suspicious people and cars around me when I'm with my kids. I'm teaching my kids some safety tricks in case of a kidnapping. If someone tries to grab you to lift you and take you away, you should lay down immediately and grab both of the kidnapper's legs to hold them tightly. And scream!

[@kathrynburgess8987]

Its a good thing to stare them down and dont act scared. This happened to me once and I continued to stare right back at him. He was alone also with no cart but different store. After I returned his gaze numerous times, he also disappeared. He was up to no good. You can just feel it in your gut, like she said.

[@sonjaanderson5998]

You nailed it! Trust your gut! Lately I have bought personal alarms and have been handing them out to the woman in my life who have touched my life! One lady has used her safety alarm 4 times in one month! Safety comes first always!

[@harvey3547]

A whistle could be helpful too.

[@cindysonger1210]

Thx for sharing. Yes, follow your instincts. Also beware, that some will follow and then follow you in their car to see where you live. Doing this for a later snatch and grab. Prayers, prayers, prayers! A man last week reported he was followed after leaving the bank drive thru, he was aware and lost them before he reached his home.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

It’s scary but it’s a good reminder that we need to be vigilant!

[@sandrakisch3600]

It is happening all over North America. I am in Canada and it is happening all the time. Many young people and children disappearing

[@leesahscottage663]

Thank you for sharing your story, how scary, so glad you all are safe… My sister had been sitting in restaurant and this guy chatting with her for quiet sometime, she had to excuse herself to go to the restroom, on her way down a hall heading towards the bathrooms she felt someone was following her and sure enough it was the guy that had been talking to her, he actually went into the women’s bathroom behind her, she turned around and pushed him very hard and ran back to dinning room area and getting the attention of others telling them what had just happened, he had left the restaurant and no one could find him, I still get sick to my stomach thinking about what could have happened to her right then and there in that bathroom…. Stay safe ladies, always be aware and alert…

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks for sharing! So glad your sister is safe.

[@theresapast2578]

I listened to a story on KZbin that was, something like that. I don't remember who was, as was a few years ago, and I don't follow that creator. She had noticed a couple men following her, and I think her daughter in a store. She noticed, so she paid for her merch., and left store. She went to another store, I think, to see if they would follow her there. To be honest, I don't remember conclusion of that story but, you might have considered going to another store afterwards, to see if he would follow you there. Just because you leave a store, doesn't mean, they are still not following you. Thing is, I never followed up on her page to see if, they followed her to her home. Important as, you don't know if possible perp. has plans for something later I once had a woman follow me in a store with her kid. I noticed her on her phone, telling somebody I was walking too slowly. I was figuring out which milk to purchase. I told her, sorry, you should have said something. So I picked up my pace, and walked around to next aisle. Although she was annoyed at me for walking so slow, she kept following me to frozen section, & not selecting anything from what I remember. She was just following me to annoy, and cause trouble for me. I lost my patience with her & yelled at her, "...,and you have kids?" I then turned my cart to go in completely different direction, and crossed the middle aisle to get far away from her. I decided I wouldn't be shopping for too many more items, so as to get out of Walmart asap. I paid for my groceries, and headed towards exit. I saw a man had just finished racing up the stairs and was about 2 enter the actual part of store where all product were. That man was staring at me like crazy as if I had just finished talking to him. What I figured out was, the lady who intentionally try interfere with my shopping spree, had taken my picture, sent to her husband, and concocted a story that, I was interfering with her shopping. Satan is real.

[@debrasonner5970]

Listen to your gut feeling. And TEACH YOUR KIDS TO SCREAM: HE IS NOT MY DAD HELP IF THEY ARE GRABBED. I once went to a fast food place and noticed 3 men loitering around the entrance. When I came out they were stationed at places where I could not escape. I went back in and asked another customer, male to help me get to my car. He noticed the men and agreed they were bad players. I did have a CW concealed carry permit, but there was no place to get off a clear shot. And with three men, it would be likely I would be overwhelmed. Tough what others think. YOU know in your gut what danger is.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks for sharing this story.

[@Toniahuffmanreising]

Ladies this kind of thing is happening everywhere. Happened to me even when I was in my fifties. Yes fifties!! Do not go anywhere alone. Let your men shop for you if they will. God bless.

[@donnashomeplacetn4089]

I'm so sorry this happened to you but by you reporting it, this may have saved someone else. I had my purse stolen at Walmart once during the holidays. Since then I no longer carry a purse in stores. I keep my cards in a small pouch in my pocket (I always wear clothing with pockets now) . I started carrying mace when I began taking my grandchildren places. Training yourself in situational awareness these days is a must. One other thing...if I ever buy another car I will make sure the gas spout is on the driver side.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks. Mine is on the driver side!

[@Parle-n7f]

Take pictures of anyone that gives you this kind of feeling. Take pictures of them, their car, their license plates. Let their concern be raised that you know and be very sure that when you leave a public place that you are not being followed. Many very bad people sit at stores, restaurants, parks, etc. and wait for single mothers to leave, then follow them home. A lady was followed home from a nightime TacoBell run and he got into her garage and tried to breach her home door and she shot him. As well, if you have more than one child, be very careful about leaving one vulnerable while strapping another one in the car or putting your groceries in the car. They work in multiples and if distraction doesn't work, they will wait until your hands are busy. Sadly, we have to live our lives with vigilance and caution, especially if we have children. Our children have become a commodity that they trade for big money.

[@Danni.D]

Sound of Freedom

[@9liveslisa]

I believe you. The good thing about Costco is that there are always a lot of people around. I'm sure Costco would have had someone walk you to your car if you had asked. It's a good reminder that everyone needs to be aware of their surrounndings. I shop at Costco once or twice a month with no issues. But could it happen? Of course. Stay safe.

[@YogiHollowFarm]

Anne, always follow your gut. Better to be safe and keep your girls safe. Even if your intuition is off, better to be on guard vs not. Thankful you all are safe

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Right. Better be on your guards, not the phone, and prepared.

[@MasterofScrutiny]

You were absolutely on point. And I am sure an incident report was made and they will look at the video footage and identify the guy. Then they will print a photo of him and post it where the employees can see it to keep an eye out for him. Costco does not want a kidnapping to take place in one of their stores. Good job, Frenchie! 😊

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you so much for the support!

[@Jeffrey-c2z]

This guy obviously wasn't a customer. Ladies, be very wary of any guy who your gut tells you isn't ok. If necessary talk to the store manager.

[@CassieDavis613]

How did he get into the store without a customer card?

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

You are right, Costco is now checking IDs, so he must have had a membership or entered with someone who has, or used someone's membership but someone who looked like him.

[@jogoldcoaster2847]

I was parked near a corner.. opposite a playground......these swings were very close to the footpath......a pretty little girl was all alone on the swings....her mother and friend were sitting under atree..quite away a distance.......i saw a car pull up..just down a bit .... And a guy talking outside to the driver....he was acting very nervously..looking shaky..again very nervous ! ..i could see they were discussing something....as he walked towards the swings and the little girl..he got a big shock seeing me in my car...im sure he said..oh she is with you?...?.....?. With that he went back to his car which was a brightly coloured late model car..and they sped off........i knew then what his intentions had been .......i walked over to the mother and friend and told them what i had just witnessed....they laughed it off saying they wld have chased him.... !! .....careless mother..!

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Wow, I cannot understand the mother’s reaction here. You had just saved her little girl…

[@lb6110]

@jogoldcoaster2847 - This mother is dysregulated; almost makes you want to report the care-less mother to the ministry of family services or whatever the equivalent is in your area!

[@Jharrison6014]

My daughter was followed for BLOCKS. She finally went into a store where police were. I say ALWAYS carry mace, or those crazy loud alarms you can wear as a necklace. I told my daughter to carry mace ETC every time she goes out. We are going to see more of these brazen type predators I'm afraid. Be safe. The world is getting less caring. Less safe. Have a safety plan, buddy system, and more.

[@TT-wx4tg]

Tell your children to hold hands and teach them to be 'scream queens' if they're ever in danger.

[@Musicismylove888]

This is the 2nd video that I heard of a parent spotting a trafficker. Good thing you were with your girls.

[@kittyexotica5635]

Zero evidence the man was a trafficker. Lots of assumptions here with not a lot of evidence.

[@Musicismylove888]

@kittyexotica5635 Have you ever seen what happens when you turn on a light bulb? It shines light on all the darkness in a room. The same thing happens with a mother's love.

[@lipglosslover83]

I’m so glad you are alert and your kiddos are safe .. I’m sorry this happened to you.. ppl are so weird…

[@JetJ321]

If you really want something to worry about, this sentence I read in a profilers book.along time ago. "While you are at the mall. Shopping for clothes, someone is at the mall shopping for you!" Stay alert and watch out for girls and women alone. Offer to walk out in groups.

[@charlanpennington3989]

Maybe we must take a photo from now on when we get the creeps vibe. The more violent reaction , the more likely its true. At least the stores can collect the shots, and the police force. Good share! I saw one share, middle east family. Encouraged son to be friends with little girls in class. Saw in store. Dawled to talk. Little girl kidnapped.

[@Esther-1914]

I'd say you DO have proof. Your gut is your proof. Your girls are your most precious possessions, I'd say. That's what I was thinking as I listened to your story. Wonderful that your girls stay right with you and the cart, and don't wander off. You're a great Mom!💖💖💖Keep trusting your intuition. It's one of our most precious senses and this experience will make your gut sense even stronger!💖💖💖

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you Esther! I appreciate your support.

[@randibass7558]

They work in teams. It's never just one. Good you were watchful.

[@plastruk]

As a guy I do the Costco shopping especially after work diluting the week. Wife hates to go. Will say I usually have a cart. Had an issue a few weeks ago when I ended up on same aisle as a mother with kids every few minutes. I know she was nervous. I tried to change direction and saw her again at checkout.

[@silvergirl7810]

I trust NO ONE anymore!!!

[@k.steelman2584]

Was with my young daughter in KROGER many years ago. Noticed a couple was pushing a buggy with one item in it and they were behind us every aisle we went down. I made a mental note of their description and got my daughter to hold on to the cart as she had been being a kid and running in the aisle we were in and running to her father that had gone to get something in the other part of the store. I didn't care if they thought I was the crazy lady or not, I turned around and said very loudly.... STOP FOLLOWING US! They left the cart and fled out of the store. TRUST YOUR GUT! Your child(ren) could have been the target of this man, not your purse. Go to the front and ask to be walked to your car! They could always be waiting for you outside and follow you to your car or follow you home. TAKE THEIR PICTURE! In this case in COSTCO, they have photos of members on file, they could have done a match and made a note on this guys file. Be aware and be safe for you and your children.

[@kacyvine]

I know lots of people that shop at Costco that have a concealed and carry they go in and out of Costco and it’s concealed you need to protect yourself no matter what

[@lindawestfall5660]

You were smart to look him in eyes, that probably deterred him. Stay safe.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank you Linda.

[@desertmermaid6625]

It wasn't after your purse the most valuable thing you have is your children he was after your little girls 20 years ago in Costco yeah about 20 years ago this woman started screaming someone had taken her baby out of the cart let me tell you they close down Costco so fast and they ended up finding the child it's clothes had been changed and her hair had been cut off they ended up finding her under a pallet they were very lucky so they do take children and at Costco do you have to keep your head on a swivel no matter where you go think about this a drug dealer can only sell the drugs one time but they can 1015 times a day if not more let that sink in😢

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Very very scary... Thanks for sharing.

[@magicunicorn6535]

It's easy to try to brush off our gut feelings by saying to ourselves, "Oh, don't be silly. It's nothing." But it's NOT silly. Women basically live their entire lives as prey, not as predators. So I think we've become hard-wired to have extraordinarily accurate gut feelings, just to survive in a violent world. What did you do when you went out to your car? My first thought when hearing your story was that he might be waiting out there to follow you, where you'd have less help and he could make a faster getaway. I hope you got a store security person to escort you to your car. Parking lots at stores are where you really have to stay alert. I've seen people with their hoodies up (always a red flag!) going from car to car, looking in to see if there's anything inside worth stealing. Sometimes we have people appearing to be selling fruit wandering around the lots, asking if we want to buy oranges, strawberries, etc. ??? Outside a store that sells those same things??? I wouldn't be surprised if they bought those same strawberries inside the grocery store, to use outside as props to let them get close to you. It would put them in a perfect position, particularly if you happen to be parked far away from the store entrance, to be robbed at gunpoint. I'm always aware of keeping all my car doors locked, except for the one door where I'm putting my groceries into the car. I keep my keys in my pocket. I don't bring a purse to the store or leave one in my car. I lock the doors before returning the cart, or simply leave the cart where I'm parked. I get in quickly, keeping all doors except the driver's door locked, and locking that door as I'm closing it. I don't sit there and look at my iPhone, or check my receipt; those things can be done at home. I start the car and drive away. One way you can tell if you're being followed, either in the grocery aisles or in your car, is to make several circles. If the person you're watching is making the same circles, you're being followed.

[@sunshinelizard1]

I was in a bad situation with a soon to be ex, I knew my ex had hired someone to follow me and probably harm me (I had friends who worked with my ex that told me they were worried for my safety, I wasn't just imagining things). On the advice of a smart friend, I called the person that I knew my ex would hire for such a thing and told him, I know you're involved in who is following me and I've told my lawyer and friends who you are and have told them that if anything happens to me, it's you. All of the following and parking down the street and phone call hangups (this was before cell phones) stopped.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thanks for sharing.

[@OldLadyInFL]

I think when you looked him in the eye, he knew he had been noticed and decided to give it up.

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

That's my thinking as well.

[@ellyscrafts1999]

My friend and her small child were followed at a mall. My friend yelled as loud as she could there's a man following me and my child we are not safe! Thank goodness the mall as busy and the man ran away. She asked security for an escort out of the mall and has not been back!

[@LittleFrenchyinBigTexas]

Thank for sharing this story!