Thieves Targeting Cigarettes In Wave Of Suburban Robberies
BROOKHAVEN, Pa. -- State and local police in several suburban counties believe the same men are responsible for a series of smash-and-grab robberies at local convenience stores.
The thieves, usually two men, dash into a store, often breaking through a glass door or window and grabbing large quantities of cigarettes.
As fast as they enter a store, the duo flees to a waiting vehicle, usually a maroon Chevrolet Blazer. Some of the crimes, including one on November 1st at 2 AM at a "ToGo" gasoline station in Brookhaven, have been caught on surveillance video (above and below).
State and local authorities believe the cigarette bandits are responsible for heists in Delaware County, Chester County, Berks County and Lancaster County.
In Delaware County alone, stores in Media, Woodhaven, Clifton Heights, Brookhaven and Edgemont have fallen prey to the thieves.
Police say the cigarettes are probably being transported out of state and sold on the black market, netting large amounts of money for the suspects. So far, no one has been hurt in these smash-and-grabs.
Brookhaven PD investigator Randolph McGoldrick says that anyone with information can call him at 610-876-6142, ext. 15, or remain anonymous by calling their tipline at 610-876-6142, ext. 32.
Reported by Al Novack, KYW Newsradio 1060.
Photos provided by Brookhaven PD
