All liquor stores in Philadelphia were closed on Wednesday due to looting that occurred after peaceful protests against a judge’s decision to dismiss charges against a former police officer. City officials expressed a commitment to public safety and protecting businesses. The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board closed 49 retail wine and liquor stores, with 18 of them being looted overnight. Although no employees were harmed, some were shaken by the incidents. The closure of all the stores will continue until it is deemed safe to reopen and assess the damage.
Throughout Philadelphia’s Center City district, stores and liquor stores were looted on Tuesday night following the conclusion of peaceful protests. The protests were in response to the dismissal of charges against a former police officer involved in a fatal shooting during a traffic stop. The looting was unrelated to the protests, and it is believed that opportunistic criminals took advantage of the situation. At least 30 of those arrested are facing charges related to burglary and theft.
Police received reports of break-ins and quickly responded to the stores. Crowds of juveniles and young adults were dispersed, and investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the damage. Various businesses were targeted, including clothing, sneaker, high-end, and liquor stores. Additional arrests will be made as investigators review surveillance footage. The looting incidents in Philadelphia add to the ongoing issue of store crimes that retailers of all sizes are struggling to combat.