Some local businesses are increasing their security measures after some of their neighboring businesses were robbed at gunpoint.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, armed robberies have increased by 20 % over the past year. That’s why business owners, including Mikia Rochester, are worried about their safety.
Rochester has owned Crowns of Beauty Hair Salon in the Mayport area for the past two years.
She said things took a turn for the worse when one of the neighboring businesses in her plaza was robbed at gunpoint.
"It was kind of scary because I don't think I've experienced police running with their guns drawn, but that day we just looked out and that's what we saw," Rochester said.
Police said the Lucky Charms Arcade was robbed at gunpoint by a customer in November.
The thief allegedly took almost $2,000 and Rochester said it’s happened at that same location more than once.
“I think they should have more cameras. I think they should have added a security guard after the first time. That should’ve happened immediately, but they didn’t do that. So, for it to happen two and three times I don’t understand that,” Rochester said.
That’s why she’s made it her mission to make sure her business is secure.
“Put a sign on the door saying, you know cameras, security guard. Do something,” Rochester said.
And she’s encouraging other businesses in the area to do the same.
“We just have to do all that we can do because this is just a lot,” Rochester said.
Cox Media Group
