ROCKLAND, Maine — A trio of break-ins at local businesses are being investigated jointly by local police agencies.
The most recent burglary occurred Wednesday night, when J.C. Penney’s in Rockland was broken into, according to Knox County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Tim Carroll.
Local and state police were at the scene Thursday gathering evidence of the J.C. Penney burglary. The store was closed while police were investigating. Deputy Rockland Police Chief Christopher Young said entry was gained through a side door that was pried open.
Flagship Cinemas in Thomaston was the target of a burglary Sunday night and Townline Market on Route 1 in Warren was struck on Aug. 23. Carroll said police believe all three are related because a similar method was used to break into each store.
Thousands of dollars have been stolen from safes in each of the burglaries. He said police also suspect the three recent break-ins are related to a burglary at the Lincoln Country Store in Warren in July.
“All agencies are working closely together in the investigations to hopefully coordinate efforts to capture the thieves,” Carroll said.
The sheriff’s office and municipal police departments — Rockland, Thomaston, Rockport and Camden — are requesting the public’s help regarding burglaries at local businesses.
Law enforcement is asking business owners to make nightly deposits to ensure safekeeping of their cash.
“With a holiday weekend approaching, it is typical that there may be more cash on hand than normal, and the thieves are aware to take advantage of that. If businesses are concerned for carrying cash out of the building at night, you are encouraged to contact your local law enforcement agency for an escort to your night depository,” he said.
The general public also is encouraged to call 911 about any suspicious activity, particularly in the vicinity of businesses, for law enforcement to check on, he said. He stressed that if anyone hears an alarm sound, call the police directly and do not assume the alarm alerts police.