TOLEDO, Ohio — A string of lawnmower thefts from Janney's Service Center in west Toledo has left its owner frustrated.
The business on Secor Road, which sells outdoor power equipment and services equipment needs, has been open for a century and Tim Janney, its third-generation owner of 44 years, says theft has hurt the shop's already struggling sales.
"We have films from the past that show the same person pulling the same thing,” Janney said.
"It's a tough time. The economy's not good. We've had a dry summer. People aren't ... mowing, they aren't fixing their equipment. It's been real slow for us, and for this to happen, it's just a kick in the teeth," he added.
Janney provided WTOL 11 with surveillance video from Saturday morning showing a person wearing a mask stealing a lawnmower from the gated area of the service center and simply walking away.
He added that the stolen lawnmower is valued at $849.
"It's a lose-lose for us. Myself and my staff, we work real hard here, try to provide a service to the community, and to have a guy like this come in and pull this on us,” Janney said.
Janney said this recent incident is not the only theft, either, and that half a dozen have happened over the years.
"We had somebody three months ago breach the fence in the back and take customer's equipment, so, it's just an ongoing security problem,” he said.
Janney said the equipment has been relocated to a more secure location. He also believes his business is being targeted for theft.
"As far as I'm concerned, it was a setup. He's done this before. He's done it before here.
I know his body figure, his stature. I just don't know who he is. I'm going to find out,” he said.
Toledo police are investigating the theft.
If you have any information, you are asked to call or text Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111. You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.