Rural Robberies: What Small Communities Need to Know

Recent bank robberies in rural areas have raised the question: What can small town businesses do when the worst happens?

Clay County Sheriff Bill Bergquist says safety is the one thing that is the most important during robbery situations.
 
Rural robberies, one at the Farmers State Bank in Rothsay, followed by yesterday’s burglary in Hitterdal.

So what can rural businesses do when the unexpected occurs?

Clay County Sheriff Bergquist says always comply.
 
“If somebody does come in, you give them what they want. You don’t argue with them, you just give it to them. If they take it and leave, lock the doors and call enforcement,” said Sheriff Bergquist.
 
Bergquist says it’s an important thing for people in rural communities to know, because response times can vary depending on the location.
 
“It’s not unheard of that it could be 15 to 20 minutes before we even get there,” said Sheriff Bergquist.
 
I spoke with one small town business employee who says in the light of the recent events they have upped security.
 
Jessica Lessard has worked at the Sabin General Store for just over four months.

She says not only does the store have an updated surveillance system, but also on-hand protection.
 
“We do have pepper spray on hand if things get out of control. So hopefully we can keep ourselves safe,” said Jessica.
 
When it comes to safety, she also says complying is the best procedure.
 
“If they do take money or whatever call the sheriff department right after so they can get out here, and get as much information as we can give them,” said Jessica.

Bergquist says adding on to or updating camera systems is also one of the ways rural businesses can help to improve safety.