TEMPLE, Texas — Over the last month, Vape EXcapes in Temple has endured a series of break-ins that have cost the small business thousands of dollars in damages and stolen merchandise. Owners Pamela and Jimmy Wilson, who have operated the vape shop for over a decade, say they’ve never experienced anything like the recent spike in crime.
"This month alone, we've been broken into three times," Pamela Wilson told 6 News. "In total, it's cost us $2,300 in glass repairs and more than $6,000 in stolen products. Liability insurance doesn’t cover any of it."
The robbers, whom the owners believe are teenagers, are targeting the store’s THC products and vape supplies rather than money.
"They’re breaking windows and doors, grabbing rocks from outside to smash through the glass," Pamela Wilson added. "They act like they’re shopping at 1 a.m., completely unbothered by alarms or cameras."
The Wilsons have invested in additional security measures, including reinforced glass and more surveillance cameras. However, after a third break-in, they’re considering adding bars to the windows and doors.
The couple credits John Wall, owner of Wall 2 Wall Vape in Belton, with helping catch one of the intruders.
"John stopped by, gave me his number and said to call him if it happened again," Pamela Wilson said. "When it did, he was here before the cops."
Temple Police Department spokesperson Sydney McBride confirmed that the department did arrest a suspect in the store's latest robbery in late November. They said the thief was 16 years-old at the time of the crime.
The series of robberies has been frustrating and financially draining for the family-run business, but the Wilsons remain determined to keep their doors open, especially for their loyal customers.
"We opened Vape EXcapes with a passion to help people quit smoking," Pamela Wilson explained. "We’ve helped older customers, like us, transition from cigarettes to vaping after 45 years of smoking. Our goal has always been to create a welcoming space where families can come for support."
The couple also praised Temple Police for their efforts.
"The police have been great, but we need the community's help too," Wilson urged. "If you see something suspicious, don’t ignore it—call 911."
Despite the challenges, the Wilsons refuse to give up.
"We’re not going to quit," Wilson said firmly. "Our passion for helping people keeps us going."
With community support and increased vigilance, the Wilsons hope to prevent future incidents and continue serving their customers who rely on their expertise and commitment.
McBride told 6 News Temple Police are currently patrolling the area of Vape EXcapes closely.