Camera Store Owner Faces Robbery Attempt in New Port Richey
In a troubling incident that has drawn attention to the safety of local businesses, Jim Smetzer, the owner of Pasco Camera Exchange located near Tampa, Florida, found himself the target of thieves attempting to pilfer valuable camera equipment. This occurrence is notable not only for its audacity but also for the fact that it marks a significant first for Smetzer, who has been operating in the New Port Richey area for nearly 30 years without having encountered any similar incidents.
The Unusual Encounter
According to Smetzer, the attempted theft occurred in what is typically considered a safe downtown area of New Port Richey. “It’s very unusual to have this in downtown New Port Richey,” he remarked, highlighting the unexpected nature of the crime. Surveillance footage from the camera store captured the moment when the two suspects entered the establishment, ostensibly inquiring about purchasing cameras. Smetzer recounted that, even as they engaged him in conversation, he felt a sense of impending danger.
The Attempted Theft
As Smetzer prepared to finalize a transaction, one of the assailants swiftly snatched cash from the register and bolted. In a chaotic turn, the second thief leaped over the counter in an attempt to grab a lens. Smetzer described the frantic atmosphere, stating, “It was scary because it felt like I was trying to stop them.” The quick nature of the theft, described by Smetzer as a “quick grab-and-run,” speaks to the calculated audacity of the thieves.
Escalation into Fear
Smetzer attempted to apprehend the second thief, who had initially targeted the camera lens. However, in the process, he stumbled, and the two criminals successfully escaped in a dark-colored Mazda. This alarming encounter not only put Smetzer’s safety at risk but also left him feeling vulnerable and frustrated at the brazen behavior of the criminals. In total, the stolen items were estimated to be valued over $4,000.
The Aftermath and Community Reaction
In the wake of the robbery attempt, Smetzer speculated that the stolen lenses might already be listed for resale online, as he has seen similar high-value equipment being offered at suspiciously low prices. “For example, $1,500 lenses are being sold for $500, $600,” he pointed out, raising awareness about the potential for thieves to profit from such crimes while victimizing local businesses.
Support from Local Businesses
Smetzer’s ordeal has not gone unnoticed by fellow local business owners, who have rallied to support him. Regan Weiss, a business owner in the area, expressed a firm stance against such crimes by stating, “Never again,” in reference to the attempted theft. In solidarity, local businesses have collectively offered rewards for information leading to the arrest of the suspects involved, with one business offering $1,000 while another promised a $500 reward for similar leads.
Conclusion
While Jim Smetzer escaped with only minor injuries, the incident serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities that local businesses face amidst rising crime rates. The community’s support and willingness to offer rewards for information are encouraging signs of solidarity among local business owners. This event underscores the importance of vigilance and safety measures to prevent such encounters in the future, leaving many to ponder what steps can be taken to ensure the security of their businesses against the threat of theft.
FAQs
What happened at Pasco Camera Exchange?
Two thieves attempted to steal camera equipment from Pasco Camera Exchange, targeting the store owner Jim Smetzer while he was alone at the counter.
What items were stolen during the robbery?
The stolen items included cash from the register and a valuable camera lens, totaling more than $4,000 in losses.
What is the community doing in response to this incident?
Local businesses have banded together to offer rewards for information leading to the capture of the thieves, with at least $1,500 in total rewards being pledged.
How long has Pasco Camera Exchange been operating?
Pasco Camera Exchange has been a part of the New Port Richey community for nearly 30 years, making this incident particularly shocking for the owner and locals alike.
What measures can be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future?
Business owners are encouraged to enhance security measures, such as installing additional surveillance cameras and developing protocols for handling potentially suspicious customer interactions.