During the last month, six businesses along Central Avenue NE between 17th and 27th Avenues NE have had their windows broken and have been entered and in some cases cash taken. In addition to the six businesses that suspect(s) entered, three other businesses had windows broken.
The locations of the businesses are:
17xx Central Ave NE
18xx Central Ave NE
19xx Central Ave NE
22xx Central Ave NE (two businesses on this block)
25xx Central Ave NE
26xx Central Ave NE

Suspect information:
Officers have identified a suspect and have good leads for investigators to follow up, including his blood at one scene where he cut himself. However, no arrest has been made as of this date.
What you can do:
* Check your security devices. Make sure that your alarm is operational and that you have fresh tapes in recorders on your premises. Most tapes cannot be taped over more than seven times. Tapes become more and more grainy when repeatedly taped over.
* Make sure that cameras record features of individuals. Often the only recording is of the top of people's heads.
* Cover windows with a security film-a transparent product that decreases the chances of an intruder breaking the window.
* Make regular deposits. If you must leave any money at night, put it in a safe.
* Light up your property, so police and other passersby can see suspicious activity around your property at night.
* Leave cash drawers empty and open if visible from the street.
* Install an alarm system-and then advertise the fact that your business has one.
* Call 911 if you see suspicious activity in the area. If you are at a business that is open in the evening, please keep an eye on the properties that are closed.
* Call the Minneapolis Police Department for a premise survey of your property. An officer will inspect your building and provide you individualized written recommendations on methods to improve security. To make an appointment call 612-673-3044.
* Sign up for Biznet. When the Police Department identifies a crime pattern, Biznet subscribers may receive an alert. These alerts provide information on the crime, the suspect(s), and tips on prevention. In addition to alerts, Biznet will inform you of upcoming meetings on crime prevention and will broadcast information on programs available and seasonal safety tips. To sign up, send an e-mail to BizNet2-on@lists.pandh.com. The Minneapolis Police Department keeps Biznet subscription lists confidential.
* Write a community impact statement about these crimes. This can increase the penalty for the individual when they are charged. You may submit community impact statements to: Carol Oosterhuis, 2nd Precinct, 1911 Central Avenue NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418. If you have questions, her number is 612-673-2797.