In Los Angeles County, small businesses are repeatedly targeted for break-ins and robberies.
More than 10 businesses have been robbed in Eagle Rock alone, leaving business owners to spend their own money to replace stolen or damaged property.
Hype Kingdom sneaker store in Bellflower was broken into on January 21 by a group of 15 people who drove through the store's security gate and stole more than 500 items.
“My door has one, two, three, six locks, there's a security gate, there's a security wall built,” said Hype Kingdom owner DJ. “If someone wants something really bad, they're going to get it. So all we can do is slow down.”
Over the same weekend, thieves also targeted Santa Clarita's Seco Mini Market, causing thousands of dollars in damage.
Both incidents occurred just weeks after a mob drove into Reuben's Bakery in Compton and looted it.
Dr. Chet Mallett, owner of Sage Medical Aesthetics, said he and his company are “doing everything we can little by little, but making sure the door is locked.” , adding surveillance cameras as an additional measure.
Studio City owners are reconsidering whether their security measures are adequate after armed robbers took over at least three stores near Cahuenga Boulevard.
“We're tied to the situation in California, especially in Los Angeles,” Mallet said.
Mayor Karen Bass issued a statement in response to the growing trend of small business break-ins.
“The Los Angeles Police Department is working with other cities mentioned in this news story, including Santa Clarita, Bellflower, and Compton, outside of the Mayor's jurisdiction, to ensure that those responsible for these crimes are held fully accountable. The Mayor's Office is concerned about the infestation throughout the region and will continue to work to protect businesses and residential areas. ”
