Saturday, March 26, 2011

String of business burglaries in Auburn, NY

String of business burglaries in Auburn, NY


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Updated: 3/25 11:37 pm
Auburn (WSYR-TV) - There's no peace of mind for Auburn businesses, worried they could be the next victim in a string of burglaries that have ransacked stores and stripped them of cash. Police have been On the Lookout for these thieves since October and hope the public can help put the burglars out of business.

Managing a busy family-owned pizza shop is challenge enough for Jeff Vanderwerff and his family without cleaning up after a burglary. "They pried this right open, boom, walked right in," he said, pointing to the back door.

The criminals ransacked their business, B.B.'s Pizza, causing damage and stirring up plenty of anger.

"They got like $23, they broke my dad's scale that his dad gave him before they he passed away. They stole sentimental things that he can't get back," said Vanderwerff.

Police can't seem to catch a break with this string of burglaries. Since late October, burglars have broken in or made attempts to break in 24 times on the west end along Genesee Street. They strike at night, through a poorly lit back door.

The burglaries have been upsetting for businesses and frustrating for police.

"They want to catch these guys as badly as anyone else," said Lt. Shawn Butler. "Unfortunately our resources are limited. They're doing what they can with the manpower we have."

"We're just getting on our feet," Vanderwerff said. "We're planning to open a store in Seneca Falls anyway. They kicked us down, and we got back up anyway."

Genesee Street gets a lot of traffic, so there's a chance someone may have information who hasn't come forward. The key is to call, as soon as you spot something suspicious. The detective working on this case is Detective Kyle Platt and can be reached at 315-255-4702.

Auburn Police have also mailed out brochures to businesses with lots of safety advice.

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