Local businesses stepping up security after string of vandalism

UPDATE, 9/22 5:20 p.m.: JT’s Cutz owner Maurice Strickland said Friday that he’s stepping up security at the business after a vandal shattered dozens of their windows.

There are extra security cameras around the building and he’ll be leaving the lights on at night.

“Make it bright outside,” he said. “Maybe neighbors could see him and discourage him.”

H.T. May and Son Funeral Home owner Thomas May said he has also added extra cameras as well.

Saint Paul Church said it is also considering security cameras after getting hit but needs to work on finding money in the budget.

The church, the funeral home and JT’s Cutz all reported the same type of rock was used in the vandalism. ABC17 News found out that there are no such rocks on any of the three properties.

“This guy, evidently, is transporting the rocks with him to use in this vandalism,” said Mays.

Mays also reported a neighbor had a rock thrown through two of her windows during the day. The rocks used are heavy and could be dangerous.

“If someone had been standing in front of that window, especially a young child, and that came through and hit them in the head, it would have killed them,” said Mays.

Mays and his wife are offering a $500 reward for information leading to an arrest or arrests.

Police have not confirmed if the incidents are related. All three businesses said they were confused about a connection as well.

ORIGINAL STORY: On Thursday, the Columbia Police Department asked for the public’s help in identifying a suspect caught on video damaging a glass window at H.T. May and Son Funeral Home, located in the 2200 block of Holly Avenue.

Police said the incident took place during the overnight hours on Tuesday.

This is the fourth time someone has broken windows at the funeral home since Aug. 29.
The owner, Thomas May, said he was tired of the same window being broken over and over again, so he replaced it with bullet-proof glass. The vandal responded by breaking seven different windows.

This isn’t the only business that’s been left with broken windows recently.

The funeral home was first hit Aug. 29. Two days later, Saint Paul Church called 911 for the same reason.

Less than a week ago, JT’s Cutz also called police after several windows were broken around the shop.

If you have information on the identity or whereabouts of the suspect, call the Police Department or Crimestoppers at (573) 875-Tips to remain anonymous.

To see the surveillance footage, click here.