'Jaws of life' used to pry open ATMs at Shawn Kemps SODO cannabis dispensary

On January 11, a burglary took place at Shawn Kemp's cannabis dispensary in Seattle's SODO neighborhood, where a masked individual used hydraulic tools, commonly referred to as "jaws of life," to pry open ATMs. Surveillance footage captured the suspect arriving in a green truck, disabling a camera, and executing the theft in about 20 minutes. Co-owner Tran Du estimated losses between $25,000 and $30,000, which included cash and merchandise. The Seattle Police Department's new policy, implemented in October, requires visual confirmation before dispatching officers to alarm calls, causing significant delays. Du expressed frustration over the policy, emphasizing that it compromises the safety of small businesses, not just those in the cannabis industry.

By the time a 911 call was made at 7:15 a. m. , the burglar had already fled, although police arrived within seven minutes of the call. Du's plea for policy reform reflects broader concerns among local business owners regarding the adequacy of law enforcement responses. The incident underscores the urgent need for a reassessment of police protocols to ensure prompt action against criminal activities.