The Source owner Sonny Montilla estimates his business lost $15,000. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

repeat thefts

La Ronge business broken into three times in July

Jul 20, 2021 | 5:13 PM

A local business owner recently burglarized in La Ronge has concerns about the town’s image as he prepares to add stronger barriers to his windows and doors.

On three separate occasions in July, The Source owner Sonny Montilla experienced break-ins resulting in multiple items being stolen from his store. The first incident occurred July 2 at about 5 a.m. when the front window was broken by rocks and a PlayStation consule was taken.

Then, on July 16 at about 1:30 a.m., the same front window was broken and a TV, tablet case and video game controllers were stolen. The third incident was the following morning at 3 a.m. when another window was broken and cellphones were taken. No items have yet to be recovered.

“I think both incidents are connected as the same method of breaking into the store was used for all three burglaries, and from the security cameras, the individuals all looked similar,” Montilla wrote in a statement to larongeNOW. “As well, many people have contacted me, stating similar names. We have forwarded the messages to the RCMP, and we are currently waiting patiently for some updates.”

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In response to the break-and-enters, stronger barriers will be added to the store’s windows and doors. He explained he has been operating a business in the tri-communities for seven years and there were no burglaries until this month. Montilla estimates the loss to his business to be approximately $15,000.

He mentioned it’s disheartening to see what’s happened to his store, noting the stress that was inflicting upon them was done so by people who live in the community.

“If I was a business owner, interested in opening up a new store in our Tri-Community, and seeing many businesses locked up with security bars, I would definitely be concerned with the security of the town,” Montilla added. “There is more that needs to be done for the safety and security of the people in our beautiful Tri-Community.”

This window was smashing during the incident July 2. (The Source – La Ronge/Facebook)

The window was replaced was smashed again July 16. (The Source – La Ronge/Facebook)

Montilla, who sits on the executive of the Lac La Ronge Chamber of Commerce, doesn’t believe it is right for kids to be walking around during the late hours of the night. He stated town council still has a curfew bylaw in its books and council should determine how it can be successfully implemented.

“Our town has experienced a lot of vandalism and having more security will definitely help,” Montilla said. “I also want to extend my gratitude to the RCMP for their presence when the incidents occurred, but I think there is always room for improvement.”

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno