Being located next door to a community police station was not enough to deter a robber from holding up the Remedy's Rx drug store on Ridgeway Avenue last month.
Aaron Jaeck, manager of the shop, said he was shocked at how brazen the thief was.
"It was pretty gutsy of him," he said. "I guess it is just one of those things."
The incident at Remedy's Rx is one of a string of robberies that have hit the Austin Heights neighbourhood over the last few weeks and Jaeck said many business owners are concerned.
"There has always been robberies," he said. "It just seems in the last little while, they have really increased in frequency."
Coquitlam RCMP will not confirm how many stores have been robbed but Const. Jamie Phillipson said officers have been working closely with the Austin Heights Business Improvement Association and are encouraging business owners to report any suspicious activity.
Last month, police released a description of a suspect who they believe is involved in at least three of the robberies in the area. The suspect is described as a Caucasian man between 20 and 24 years old who is 6' to 6'2" tall and weighs approximately 190 to 215 lb.; he has dark brown hair. In all three previous robberies, he was seen wearing a black hoodie with a red logo, a black balaclava and gloves.
While Phillipson said the description is still relevant, he could not confirm whether police believe the suspect is the same one involved in several robberies since their press release last month.
"There is a lot of rumours flying around with these robberies," he said, "but it is important that we stick to the details that we know when it comes to the investigation."
So far, he said the robberies have been isolated to the Austin Heights area and police believe the suspect or suspects may live in the neighbourhood.
Jae Park, general manager of Inno Bread and Buns Bakery, said the recent spate of robberies is concerning for all business owners in the area. While he still believes the possibility of a robbery at his store is remote, he has posted information in the staff room instructing workers on what to do in case of a hold-up.
"Nobody has attempted a robbery at our store," he said. "We always have four or five staff on, so maybe that is why. But I'm not really sure."
Despite the string of incidents, Rosemaie Bella, owner of Rosemarie's Treasures, said she believes the neighbourhood is safe. She added that the BIA has hired an extra security guard to patrol the area.
"In 28 years that I have been here, I have never been freaked out or anything," she said. "I sure would like him to be caught, though."
San Lee, owner of Lucky Loonie Dollar Store, said his business was broken into last year but thieves were scared off by his alarm system. He has heard of other businesses in the area being held up but has never had someone come into his business and demand cash from the register.
ROBBERY PREVENTION TIPS
Make sure windows are not covered by signs or merchandise.
Pay attention to suspicious activities around the business.
Adjust lighting so entrances are well lit.
Don't keep large amounts of cash on hand.
Ensure video surveillance equipment is working properly.
