East County businesses targeted by smash-and-grab burglaries – NBC 7 San Diego

An increase in smash-and-grab burglaries in East County prompted an alert from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department.

The burglars are targeting small restaurants, pubs and retail stores after hours by using things like sledgehammers to break through glass doors and windows, according to the SDSO.

While the names and number of businesses that were targeted were not disclosed, the burglaries made enough of an impact for SDSO to issue a bulletin warning small business owners of the series.

“These crimes are typically fast, destructive, and costly, even when suspects leave empty-handed,” the sheriff’s department said in its alert.

The SDSO urged small businesses to secure their entry points, add an alarm system and use surveillance cameras to monitor the property. The agency said business owners should also limit access to keys and alarm codes.

Anyone who sees suspicious activity should call the SDSO’s non-emergency line or Santee Sheriff’s substation at 619-956-4000 or submit anonymous tips to sdcrimestoppers.org. In case of emergencies, call 911.