by Jennifer Dawson

A number of burglaries or attempted burglaries into buildings in early February drew the attention of many in Vergennes, though such incidents are not isolated to the small Vermont city. Following three separate incidents in late 2024 that took place in Addison County in addition to burglaries elsewhere in the state, many of Vermont’s small businesses are on high alert in regard to brick-and-mortar security. From the stark reality of break-ins to how technology and employee training can make a difference, small businesses across the Green Mountain State can successfully secure their premises through a layered and strategic approach.

Recent activities illuminate concerns 

Recent break-ins in Vermont have targeted a number of establishments. In late November of 2024, Vermont State Police were investigating a series of burglaries that took place in Addison County, a NBC5 article by Michael Cusanelli details. These burglaries involved damaged property and a stolen cash register at the Wag Onn Inn kennel, theft of merchandise (cigarettes) and attempted theft of an ATM machine at the Jolley convenience store, as well as an attempted burglary at the Lincoln General Store, according to the article. It’s important to note that such incidents aren’t localized to Addison County, as businesses in neighboring Chittenden County have recently experienced similar occurrences.

In Burlington, a spike in retail theft left many businesses impacted by loss. Burlington sneaker and apparel store Banana Stand was just one business that was profoundly affected by the spike of theft in the area, which resulted in the location closing after following two instances of robbery in one November weekend of 2023. While Banana Stand has since reopened, the memory of the incident remains for shoppers and local businesses alike. Beyond Burlington, a separate NBC5 article by the same author from late March of 2025 details an additional burglary that took place at Papa McKee’s in Richmond. The suspects involved reportedly attempted to cut into an ATM inside the business, though ultimately left the scene after being noticed by a bystander.

Many business owners throughout the state may place more importance on cybersecurity due to the prevalence of digital tools in the workplace, though physical security remains equally as crucial in 2025. For context, The Zebra notes that 34% of burglaries that occur each year impact small businesses, an analysis of data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the US Department of Justice revealed. While a small number of break-ins result in bodily harm, businesses often experience financial losses and property damage in addition to operational disruptions. 

The power of modern camera systems

Technology has long been critical for Vermont businesses that aim to secure a brick-and-mortar location, with solutions that extend far beyond a basic alarm system. Security cameras are just one staple technology, as they help deter crime and can help the evidence collection process should a break in or burglary occur. For small businesses, video analytics driven by AI can propel efforts to enhance security for small businesses, particularly in regard to theft. A U.S. Chamber of Commerce article by Lauren Kubiak points out that video analytics can help “recognize patterns, movements, and specific objects of behaviors,” which aims to provide more insight than traditional footage. 

The technological advancement of cameras remains a critical factor for business owners that strive for heightened security. Cloud video surveillance solutions are essential for businesses like convenience stores, especially when they’re coupled with features that further security efforts. Such features include those that provide the ability to receive alerts for suspicious activity, and even POS transaction reports (which aims to enhance loss prevention endeavors). As a result, modern camera system solutions can help business owners detect theft within just minutes. Enhanced security cameras can also provide business owners with the ability to remotely check in on multiple locations from the same device, a feature that helps streamline security with convenience in mind. 

Employee training and awareness — a strategic approach

One Security Magazine article by Madeline Lauver outlines a number of approaches that can be taken in order to heighten physical security in the workplace as per security leaders across healthcare, infrastructure, and telecommunications sectors. One of the first suggestions on the list include “tabletop exercises.” These reenactments of various situations as a team provide the unique opportunity to walk through threats and their appropriate responses before they actually happen, whether it be an exercise on how to handle a robbery or shoplifting. Previous Assistant Secretary for Infrastructure Protection for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Brian Harrell, tells Security Magazine that these types of exercises are particularly ideal for preparation as they help expose “gaps, concerns and opportunities for improvement.” 

A layered approach to employee training is critical and extends to beneficial practices like threat awareness. While burglaries typically occur when an establishment is closed, it remains crucial that employees routinely practice awareness in order to identify potential threats and follow protocol should an instance take place while on the clock. In addition to various training exercises, the Vermont State Police Department of Public Safety site discusses a form that can guide employees through “what to look for in the event they are working” should a robbery take place. 

Such a guide can help steer employees in the right direction and can help provide an outline for what to look and listen for. While seemingly simple, such a form can be immensely helpful in a frantic situation. “These tips show people how to be a good witness, which will help law enforcement and hopefully lead to the suspect’s arrest.” The Robbery Witness Form instructs victims to call 911 in the event of a robbery, and presents an outline for the individual to fill out as soon as possible. This includes crucial details of the event, such as the people involved, clothing worn by the suspect, type of vehicle, whether a weapon was present, and so forth.

Recent break-ins and burglaries have underscored the value of security and proactive safety measures for businesses across the Green Mountain State. From the role of high-tech solutions to the critical importance of employee knowledge and awareness, small businesses throughout Vermont can take the proper steps needed to successfully secure the premises.