In the quiet city of Colorado Springs, a recent string of gun store break-ins has left one gun owner concerned about the safety of his community. Early Thursday morning, criminals targeted two separate gun stores in a brazen attempt to steal firearms and other valuable items. The first store, located on Elkton Drive, was the scene of a failed break-in where the suspects left behind their bumper in their haste to escape. Undeterred, they quickly moved on to Spartan Defense Armory and Training off Barnes Road near Powers, successfully breaking into the store and making off with an unknown quantity of guns.
The owner of Spartan Defense Armory and Training, Ted Collins, was shocked to receive a call about the break-in at his family-owned business. Despite investing over $10,000 in security measures to protect his store, the criminals were able to gain access and steal firearms in a matter of minutes. Collins expressed his concern about the stolen guns potentially ending up on the streets, emphasizing the importance of keeping firearms out of the wrong hands.
Colorado Springs police are actively investigating the break-ins and have linked the two crimes together based on evidence found at the scenes. The pattern of smash-and-grab burglaries targeting gun stores in the area has raised alarm bells for law enforcement officials, who are committed to putting an end to these dangerous crimes. District Attorney Michael Allen emphasized the serious risks posed by these criminal activities and pledged to take a zero-tolerance approach towards those responsible.
The rise in motor vehicle theft in Colorado Springs, with a 40 percent increase between 2019 and 2023, has added to the challenges faced by local law enforcement in combating these crimes. Pikes Peak Area Crime Stoppers have offered a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to the arrest of the individuals involved in the recent break-ins. The community is urged to come forward with any relevant information to help bring the perpetrators to justice.
As Colorado Springs grapples with the aftermath of these disturbing incidents, it is clear that a concerted effort is needed to address the underlying issues contributing to the rise in smash-and-grab burglaries. Business owners like Ted Collins are left to pick up the pieces and rebuild their sense of security in the wake of such brazen criminal acts. The community must stand together to support law enforcement efforts and ensure that Colorado Springs remains a safe and secure place for all residents.