Dollar Store Robberies

They are stores that most people on Delmarva run to at least a couple times each week to pick up essential items. 

But now these discount chain stores are becoming epicenters for crimes, right here on Delmarva. 

So far this week, two Dollar General Stores in Wicomico County have been robbed. 

In both cases  the suspect is described as a black male, 5'8" , wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and dark colored jeans. 

But police say they don't see a pattern yet.  

Maryland State Police spokesperson, Elena Russo, says right now investigators don't see a connection with the crimes. 

"The only thing I can tell you  is that there doesn't seem to be a real connection between these particular stores and why they are the ones being robbed except for the fact that they are located in areas where there aren't really a whole lot of other options."

The Dollar General in Mardela Springs was hit on Monday.

The next night a Dollar General in Salisbury.

Bringing the total to four Dollar Generals that have been robbed in September alone. 

Police say stores need to be prepared. 

"We think its very important for any small business big business convenience stores whatever you want to call them to have strong policies in place for instances like this."

Strong policies that outline what you should do in a similar situation are recommended by police.  

In the Salisbury robbery a clerk was punched in the face.

Authorities are not sure if that's because they were trying to resist,  but Kaiser says its best not be be a hero.

"The biggest part of this is that we want the employees to be safe. We don't want you contesting the suspect or robber or whatever you're calling them at this time. We want you to do what they are telling you to do."

Kaiser has a different piece of advice for customers.

"If your instinct is to go to one side of the store or go hide in the store then that's what you need to do. You need to follow your instinct."

Experts say convenience stores like Family Dollar and Dollar General generally have more cash transactions and smaller bills which may make them a target. 

Kaiser's last piece of advice; pay attention so you can provide details to police. 

And to wait to call 911 until you're sure the robber is gone.  

He adds the department has some partnerships with local shopping centers allowing them to directly monitor surveillance cameras right at the station.