Greenmount, MD — A small business owner in Greenmount is speaking out after her store was broken into three separate times this year, all with the same pattern of theft. The repeated burglaries have left her frustrated and fearful as police continue to search for the suspect.
According to WMAR2-TV, the DiGi Business Center, owned by Tia Hamilton, was burglarized on February 6, September 30, and October 2. Each time, Hamilton says, the burglar used the same method of entry and appeared to know exactly what they were doing.
A Pattern of Theft
Hamilton told reporters that she immediately recognized the similarities between each break-in.
“I noticed my register is gone; it’s the same MO, he’s not destroying anything,” Hamilton said.
Despite the store having bars on the windows, the suspect still managed to get inside without causing significant damage.
“There are bars on the window, so you have to be super skinny to fit through those bars,” Hamilton explained.
Investigators believe the burglar may have entered through a narrow window opening, possibly squeezing through the metal bars.
Police Investigation Underway
The Baltimore Police Department confirmed that they are investigating the burglaries and reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses. However, identifying the suspect has been challenging because the individual was reportedly wearing gloves and a face covering during each break-in.
Detectives are now comparing evidence from all three incidents to determine whether the same person is responsible for all of them.
A Deep Sense of Violation
For Hamilton, the emotional toll has been as heavy as the financial loss.
“It’s a violation to me when you steal,” she said. “You work hard for what you have, and someone just comes in and takes it.”
She added that while the stolen register and other items can be replaced, the feeling of being targeted repeatedly has shaken her sense of security.
Community Support and Caution
Other small business owners in the Greenmount area have expressed solidarity with Hamilton, calling for increased patrols and better lighting around commercial areas. Police are reminding store owners to:
- Check locks and window security regularly.
- Install motion-sensor lights and cameras.
- Avoid keeping cash in registers overnight.
- Report suspicious behavior immediately.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information about the burglaries to contact Baltimore Police or Metro Crime Stoppers.
What are your thoughts on this case and the challenges small businesses face in preventing theft? Share your views in the comments below.
