Store owner: ''We're going to have to start carrying guns to protect ourselves''

August 18, 2004
Akron Beacon Journal

Rolling Acres jewelry store robbed
Shop owner complains about security after men escape with two necklaces

Akron police are investigating an armed robbery at a Rolling Acres Mall jewelry store.

Two men -- one displaying a handgun -- entered the Diamond Castle at 2400 Romig Road about 12:40 p.m. Tuesday. The robbers took two necklaces before fleeing.

The men were last seen driving a gray Jeep Cherokee with Ohio plates DEF8576.

Mike Awad, owner of the jewelry store, said he is concerned about the safety of his employees because of what he calls a lack of adequate security at the mall.

"For it to be broad daylight and for someone to come in here and feel secure enough to rob the store like that is crazy,'' Awad said. "How can two security guards protect this entire mall? No wonder no one wants to come here.... We're going to have to start carrying guns to protect ourselves.''