ARLINGTON In 12 years, this is the first time this has happened to us, said Carla Lowe, owner of the Little Italy Italian Market on Olympic Avenue. Im just disappointed.
Lowe reported that the tip jar for her employees went missing Feb. 20, and a review of the security system revealed that it had been stolen at 1:18 p.m.
This woman entered our store, went up to the counter, picked up the tip jar, looked around and slipped it under her jacket, Lowe said. She didnt realize she was on camera, though.
Lowe described the suspect as a heavyset female with long, dark, thick hair, wearing blue jeans, a red top and what appeared to be a Seattle Mariners jacket from the surveillance footage.
I know Id recognize her, if I saw her again, Lowe said. All the tip jar money goes to my staff, to augment their hard work. I dont participate in any of it.
Lowe estimated the losses might be as much as $100, if not more, but emphasized that she would do what she could to make sure her employees would not be adversely impacted by the theft.
Ive heard about the recent rush of espresso stand robberies, but its still so sad to see something like this come to the Arlington community, Lowe said.
Arlington Police are currently investigating the incident.