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Thieves Target Valley Coffee Shops
At least five coffee shops broken into since weekend
By Kate McPherson
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MATANUSKA-SUSITNA VALLEY - State Troopers say thieves are targeting coffee shops in the Matanuska Valley -- from Big Lake to Palmer.
According to troopers, around five coffee shops are now cleaning up after being broken into over the weekend and Monday. Total damage is estimated at $10,000.
Cabin Coffee, just outside of Wasilla on the Parks Highway, has only been open four months.
The owner, who didn't want to be identified, said being broken into over the weekend is a financial setback for a business that’s just getting off the ground.
“Glass shattered all over the ground, broken window it was just really scary,” the owner said on Tuesday.
The thieves made off with about $40 worth of energy drinks.
“There's Rockstar spilt everywhere; they took the whole thing of Rockstar out of there.”
The thieves also took the cash register, which only had $8 in change.
Troopers believe two men driving a sedan are responsible -- but there are no descriptions available to release to the public.
The owner of the Metro Café in Wasilla, Carmen Starheim, caught the break-in on surveillance video.
“They threw a rock through this window and it came right through here through the pastry case,” said Starheim, pointing to the drive-thru window.
Starheim said no money is ever left in the cash register.
“[I'm] more hurt then angry; I should be angry I guess but just this is my baby my little shop,” said Starheim, who can’t understand why anyone would target a coffee shop.
She and her husband established their business from scratch three years ago and have built up a following of loyal customers.
Starheim says there’s not much worth stealing.
“Syrup? Coffee?”
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact the State Troopers at 907-745-2131.
