What Is a “Breakout” Burglar? Pasco Police are Looking For One

Employees at the Pasco Rite-Aid are upset and a bit shook up over the idea that a burglar was actually hiding in the store with them after closing time Monday night.

Pasco police have released a security picture of a man who reportedly entered the store just before closing time.  He was able to escape detection from the closing clerk, and hid in the back storeroom. That's why he is being called a "breakout" burglar.

That term is often applied to criminals who hid inside stores until after closing and the workers leave. They then try to steal items, and "break out" of the store-sometimes triggering the alarm system.

He then shoved numerous cigarette cartons into a white bag be brought with him, then left through the fire exit door.  Authorities didn't say if the workers knew he was there, or if he triggered the fire alarm, but according to reports, the workers were upset to learn he was in there with them.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Tri-Cities Crime Stoppers at (509)-586-TIPS (9467).