Four nighttime burglary attempts at downtown businesses this week

July 23, 2010
by Christine Yeres

In the very early hours of Tuesday morning, July 20, four downtown businesses were the victims of burglary attempts, two of which were successful. Three businesses along South Greeley Avenue, Gail Patrick’s Cafe, Villarina’s and EZ Sports, showed signs of forced entry, or attempted forced entry, Gail Patrick’s and EZ Sports from the back and Villarina’s from the front. All the businesses were securely locked at the time of the attempts.

The burglary attempts at Gail Patrick’s and a fourth business, Cafe La Track at the Chappaqua train station, were successful, the burglar or burglars actually entered the premises, most likely in search of money, reported Detective Sergeant James Wilson.

According to Wilson, the police investigation thus far has revealed that the criminals used the same modus operandi (MO) in all four instances. EZ Sports owner Pete Zimmerman, who reported the attempt to New Castle police at 8:05 a.m. Tuesday, explained that although it was clear that someone tried to break into his back window, because it was painted shut they could not open it.

Wilson declined to furnish additional details at this time about the break-ins and attempted break-ins, including whether or how much money was taken. The New Castle police are continuing to follow up leads.