A lust for cash has left another downtown Vernon business reeling from the sting of a break-in.
Barbara and Ken Harvey, owners of Libra Love Boutique, were alerted to a break-in at the Coldstream Avenue store Sunday morning around 5 a.m. A male suspect, wearing ski goggles and a toque, was recorded breaking the glass door of the store.
Although there was no money on premises, it was obvious what the thief was after, said Barbara.
“He tore the whole (cash register) drawer out of the cabinet even though it was empty.”
But the thief didn’t leave empty handed.
“He grabbed some discounted lubricant we had on the counter,” said Barbara. “So we are kind of laughing at that.”
While the Harvey’s, who have owned the store for 13 years, are trying to keep their humour, the incident is no laughing matter.
“It just is very unfortunate, it seems to be happening to a lot of small businesses in Vernon,” said Barbara, adding that this is the first break-in Libra has endured.
“It’s all back in business but $1,500 later for new glass and all the toil and aggravation you go through.”
Barbara suspects this was just a random act, particularly since none of the computer equipment or pricier items were stolen.
“We had $300 toys at the entrance and he never touched anything.”
Anyone with information can contact the Vernon RCMP detachment at 250-545-7171 Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-8477.