Thief steals $10,000 in tools, cash from Lacey auto business

Surveillance cameras capture a suspect peering through the front window of Audio Northwest less than two hours before someone broke into the Lacey business.

“It’s never a good feeling. I feel a little violated,” said owner Jesse Peterson.

The burglary happened Sunday while workers were away after Thanksgiving.

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“It’s really unfortunate that that’s what they were thinking about during the holiday weekend,” said Kristen Boyd, marketing director.

Peterson said the suspect pried his way into the business through the side door. Once inside, he took his time and rummaged around.

The thief took thousands of dollars’ worth of expensive tools, car parts and electronics. He also busted open the register and got away with about $2,000 in cash.

“It’s pretty frustrating, especially this time of year. We don’t have $10,000 just to throw around,” said Peterson.

Audio Northwest has been selling and installing stereo equipment in Lacey since 1983. Many of the parts stolen were going to be used for appointments this week.

Peterson said he’s doing everything he can to not let customers down.

“It’s made this week very interesting and a bit challenging, yes,” he said. “We’ve expedited shipping to replace some of the components that are going in this week and we should be able to get most of them done at the same amount of time or close to what we promised.”

Lacey police said the burglary is under investigation. Anyone who recognizes the suspect, or knows anything about the crime, is asked to call investigators.

Cox Media Group