Northlake Mall recently debuted its new K-9 Patrol Unit. 

This announcement comes after multiple shootings and other reports of increased crime at Northlake Mall over the last year.

K-9 handler Angel Hernandez will work alongside Smokey, a 3-year-old Belgian Malinois. 

Hernandez is a former police K-9 handler who now works with Allied Universal Security, and Smokey is certified in odor tracking and firearm detection.

Other security increases by Northlake Mall include partnering with Charlotte Mecklenburg Police to increase police presence, more security cameras, and vehicle recognition.