Two teenagers have been arrested in connection to a break-in and theft at a Plaza Midwood bottle shop on Tuesday, according to the police. The incident took place at the Sip City Market & Bottle Shop along Central Avenue around 2:40 a.m. Surveillance video shows the two thieves using a rock to smash their way into the shop.
Yazan Humaideh, the owner of the shop, expressed his devastation as he swept up the shards of glass. He described his business as his “bread and butter” and the only thing he has.
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The thieves were captured on camera throwing a rock through the back door and stealing $100 worth of beer and sodas from the fridge before fleeing the scene. Humaideh expressed his frustration, questioning if there was anything more he could have done to prevent the break-in.
In a recent development, the police announced that a 15-year-old and a 17-year-old have been charged in connection to the incident.
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Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident. Several other small businesses in the vicinity have also fallen victim to break-ins. Pizza Peel, NoDa Bodega, and The Artisan’s Palate have all experienced similar thefts and damages.
The local police are taking action to curb this trend. CMPD Lt. Kevin Pietrus stated that they are actively communicating with the affected businesses to enhance security measures and increase patrols during the overnight hours.
While it is unclear if the individuals involved in the Sip City break-in are connected to the other incidents, the police are conducting an investigation to determine if there is any link between them.
Humaideh stressed the challenges faced by businesses during the end and beginning of each month, when bills are due. He emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses in times like these.
Sip City, which opened in May, will incur expenses of approximately $700 to replace the damaged door. Despite the setback, the shop hosted a Halloween party on Tuesday night.
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