String of robberies targets pharmacies

FRANKFORT, Ind. (WLFI) - Two pharmacies in Frankfort have combined for at least five robberies or shoplifting incidents in recent months.

"Do your shopping early. Just stay away from it at night," said Frankfort resident, Tyler Malone.

That's Malone's advice for anyone looking to shop at the 24-hour CVS on West Walnut Street in Frankfort. Malone lives right across the street from the pharmacy. When he heard it was robbed at knife point early Friday morning, he wasn't all that surprised.

"It's not really that shocking but at the same time a string of robberies? That's getting to the point where something needs to be done," said Malone.

Frankfort Police Chief Troy Bacon said something is being done. Over the last several months, NewsChannel 18 has reported on 5 different robberies or shoplifting cases at the Frankfort CVS's. Three occurred at the one on West Walnut Street and two happened at the one on East Walnut Street.

"We have stepped up patrols because of the recent robberies, not only here at the CVS but at the liquor stores and other stores as well. We've directed all the patrol units to start patrolling more, more frequently around these areas," said Bacon.

Bacon said it's unclear why robbers are targeting the CVS's. He said it could be because the West Walnut CVS is open 24 hours a day. However, he said the focus of recent robberies has been getting away with money, not drugs.

"Compared to last year, there has been a rise in robberies at this particular CVS. Detectives are working hard to figure out why that is," said Bacon.

Even so, the armed robberies have some neighbors on edge.

"Just walking around, especially with a knife. I mean, it could have been at gunpoint and that would have been even worse," said Malone.

Friday morning's robbery is still under investigation. Police are searching for a white female, short with a heavy build. Anyone with information is asked to call Frankfort Police or the Tips hotline at 765-654-6480.