In a recent attempted burglary at Casa Leon Jewelers in Lake Mary, Florida, the owner’s foresight in security measures effectively prevented the loss of valuable items.
The incident, which unfolded late on a Saturday night, saw the suspect, Lenell Barnes III, attempting to loot the store but leaving empty-handed due to preemptive security protocols enacted by the store owner, Rene Barrios.
Incident Details
The burglary attempt occurred when the perpetrator, identified as Lenell Barnes III, drove his truck into the store’s glass door and entered with a sledgehammer. Surveillance video showed Barnes turning on the lights and realizing quickly that there were no items to steal, as all the merchandise had been removed from display. This quick discovery led him to leave the store shortly after entering, without taking anything.
Store Owner’s Preventative Actions
Rene Barrios, the owner, had taken the precaution of removing all valuables from the store floor, a practice he follows nightly. “We don’t leave anything outside…nothing. You can take a candle if you need to light your way out, but other than that, there’s nothing of value,” Barrios stated. This proactive security strategy played a crucial role in averting potential losses from the burglary.
Response and Suspect Apprehension
After the attempted theft, Barrios promptly provided the police with the vehicle’s license plate number and description, facilitating a swift response. Barnes was arrested in Orange County following a pursuit that involved deploying spike strips, a vehicle crash, and his eventual capture by police with the help of K-9 units. Barnes, who was in possession of burglary tools including a mask and gloves, is now facing multiple charges related to the incident.
Remember to do the basics
The successful prevention of the theft at Casa Leon Jewelers illustrates how effective it can be to remove all valuables from public access areas as part of your security plan.
People can’t steal what they can’t see, and securing your merchandise remains the most effective way of preventing theft.
