Tulsa Burglary Suspects Caught On Tape

By Craig Day, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- An investment in technology paid off for a Tulsa convenience store targeted by thieves. Burglars were caught on tape and then caught by police.

When thieves broke into Batman's Good Food & Convenience Store at Pine and Mingo, their intent was to steal cigarettes. What they didn't count on was being captured on camera.

10/02/2009  Related Story: Pair Of Tulsa Burglary Suspects Arrested Early Friday

"The cameras really paid off this time. We watched the two thieves' every movement. What happened in the store we know," said Carnie Low, store owner.

The video clearly shows the men breaking into a store and swiping the cigarettes. The surveillance system is linked to owner Carnie Lowe's home computer. Lowe was at home, happened to notice the burglary as it was happening at about midnight and quickly called police.

"Sixteen cameras in the store, in the parking lot, in the restaurant area, the whole store," said Carnie Low.

Armed with still photos printed from the surveillance camera images, police were able to make quick arrests and recover the stolen merchandise.

Those 16 cameras cost the store about $15,000, which is a lot for a small business. But the owner says they're well worth it, to help deter would-be thieves, or to help catch them when they do strike.

"Thanks to God, thank you to the policemen and thanks to the technology and everything. I was lucky," said Carnie Low.

Police arrested 19-year-old Tylor Eich and 20-year-old Weston Scott. Both face several charges, including burglary and larceny.

The good surveillance video has another benefit. Low is making copies of the video to help prosecutors in their case against the two men arrested.