Home » Crowbar-Wielding Trio Attempt Dispensary Break-In

Crowbar-Wielding Trio Attempt Dispensary Break-In

Posted by Mick Warncke on Dec 5, 2023

Cannabis dispensaries face a myriad of security risks, primarily due to the nature of the products they sell and the large amounts of cash they handle. Cannabis dispensaries are often targeted by criminals due to their cash-intensive operations and the high value of their inventory. In some regions, dispensaries have reported frequent robberies and late-night burglaries that target both retail and wholesale cannabis products, posing significant threats to the viability of their operations.  

Security is also a requirement for cannabis dispensaries and growers, but because marijuana is still not federally legal, there are no national security requirements for cannabis dispensaries. Instead, security requirements vary from state-to-state, depending on both overall cannabis legality and existing laws within the state.  

To mitigate the range of potential risks, dispensaries typically invest in a variety of security measures. These measures often include: 

  • Alarm systems covering both the interior and perimeter of the dispensary. 
  • Silent duress alarms to notify law enforcement discreetly during emergencies. 
  • Tracking and badging all visitors to monitor foot traffic. 
  • Continuously recording surveillance cameras for real-time monitoring and evidence collection. 
  • Conducting annual third-party security audits to ensure compliance with local regulations and identify potential security vulnerabilities. 

Aside from the measures listed above, to protect against forced entry, dispensaries may employ exterior fencing, reinforced glass windows and doors, and retrofit display cases with smash & grab protection. These physical barriers can help deter criminals and provide an additional layer of security to protect both assets and personnel.  

With the cannabis industry continuing to expand, addressing these security challenges is paramount to ensuring the safety and sustainability of dispensary operations across North America. 

Stealth’s live video monitoring solution is an ideal fit for the complex needs of the cannabis industry. In the video below, watch as a group of thieves target a Colorado dispensary, unaware that our trained monitoring operators could see their attempt in real time: 

 

At approximately 4:26 a.m., Stealth security professionals observing a Colorado cannabis dispensary spotted an individual, dressed in all black and with their face covered, attempting to access the building with a crowbar. Two more suspects similarly dressed and wielding crowbars joined the first seconds later. Observing monitoring operators immediately contacted local police dispatch to inform them of the activity in progress. Although police arrived quickly, the trio fled before they arrived on scene. 

Safeguard Your Cannabis Facility with Proactive Video Monitoring  

In our security-conscious world, a robust protection plan is essential for any cannabis facility. With stringent state regulations and the high value of inventory, your business demands an airtight security strategy. That’s where our Live Video Monitoring solution comes in.  

Stealth’s live video monitoring revolutionizes cannabis security by taking a proactive approach. Combining state-of-the-art cameras with expert human oversight, we identify and respond to threats in real time. The moment our alert operators spot any suspicious activity, they can sound onsite alarms or contact police – often before a problem escalates.  

By getting ahead of issues before they occur, Live Video Monitoring acts as a potent deterrent. Intruders tend to promptly vacate premises when alarms sound or police are notified, just as can be seen in the above example. And by providing dispatch with live updates and suspect details, our operators can enable an accelerated law enforcement response.  

In short, our proactive video monitoring service helps neutralize threats, enhance safety, and ensure regulatory compliance. Your business remains protected- even late at night and after business hours- by the latest technology and our observant professionals.  

To learn more about securing your cannabis facility with our cutting-edge video surveillance, contact our team today. We’re ready to help you safeguard your establishment and achieve peace of mind. 

Texas Private Security License Number: B14187
California Alarm Operator License Number: ACO7876
Florida Alarm System Contractor I License Number: EF20001598
Tennessee Alarm Contracting Company License Number: 2294
Virginia Private Security Services Business License Number: 11-19499
Alabama Electronic Security License # 002116
Canada TSBC License: LEL0200704