EZ Fuel has been plagued by crime during the past year, which has prompted the owner to look at hiring a security company to protect the property.
An Oliver businessman is getting so frustrated with crime that he’s forced to hire a security company to protect his livelihood.
“I can’t run my business because I don’t know what’s coming next,” said Terry Feeny, owner of EZ Group.
The man is “totally fed up” with being a target of criminals who break into his fuel station and rental car company on a regular basis.
Feeny rattled off a list of what some “low-lifes” have done during the past few months: broke into his fuel station and rental car company, stole his gas, cut his fence, stole his laptop, stole a golf cart and air conditioner. Someone even broke into the coin boxes in the campground.
Prior to that, a couple of guys backed a truck into the store north of Oliver and attempted to steal the ATM machine. And prior to that, someone stole a bunch of data wire during construction. And before that, someone burned the building down during renovations.
Feeny said he has security lighting and six cameras on site, yet the criminals still come.
“I’m doing everything I can (to protect the place), but it’s ridiculous,” he said.
Feeny acknowledged that 99 per cent of the people who live in Oliver are good citizens, but it’s the one per cent who aren’t.
He took his concerns to the RCMP, who said they are aware of what’s been happening. They suggested that Feeny get a guard dog, but the businessman said he would be worried that a dog might bark a lot and disturb his neighbours. And if the dog got hurt during an altercation with a criminal, he would be “sick” with guilt.
So the businessman is considering hiring a security company to patrol the premises.
Feeny said he isn’t looking for sympathy, only public awareness.
“Perhaps the public can be more vigilant . . . neighbours helping neighbours (so we can catch these guys).”
Feeny said he employs about 16 people who make a good living. He also tries to be a good corporate citizen by sponsoring youth soccer.
But all this crime against his company is taking its toll.
“I’m tired of it,” Feeny stated.
Corporal Dave Tyreman of the RCMP recommends that businesses contact the RCMP to have a security analysis done.
“They will look at type of door locks, current surveillance system, etc. They will also look at why a business is a target.”
Tyreman said some members are specifically trained in crime prevention through environmental design, so they can help in that regard.
By Lyonel Doherty
