Steve Darrach, co-owner of Off the Wallz trampoline park in Slemon Park, issued a statement on social media Wednesday that his business had been broken into the previous night. A glass pane on a metal door was smashed to gain entry.
Darrach said this is the second break-in the business has suffered since it opened in December.
He installed security cameras after the first incident; now he plans to install a full alarm system.
To be burlgarized twice in only eight months of operation is disappointing, he added.
“We’re a small business just like everybody else, trying to bring something pretty cool to Summerside … Then somebody turns around and does that. It’s frustrating.”
The business’ video cameras did record the incident, but the perpetrator is covered by a hooded jacket or sweatshirt. A video of the incident can be found on Darrach’s Facebook page and is being widely shared.
The only thing stolen in both incidents was cash. He declined to say how much was taken in the most recent incident, but did say that it was enough that it would set the business back a few days.
The East Prince RCMP is investigating. Anyone with information is asked to contact the detachment office.
Darrach is also offering a cash reward worth double what was stolen to anyone who provides information used by police to make a successful prosecution.
He’s doing that because he has no patience for people who take from others, rather than earning themselves, he said.
“I really don’t like thieves. It’s one of my biggest pet peeves.”
A similar incident occurred at the Paddle Shack business on Water Street earlier this month, where a window was smashed to gain entry.
In that case, more than $5,000 worth of sporting goods and electronics was stolen.
All the items were recovered a few days later after the theft was covered in the media and shared widely on social media.
