Police are looking for thieves who walk in with a gun and out with cash. They have 3 more cases from the holiday weekend to bring the total to nearly three dozen armed robberies since November.

"I don't recall it being like this over the last few years in the Christmas season. This is definately a peak that we're seeing," said Lt. Noel Garcia of the Lansing Police Department.

An Arby's on Cedar Street and a medical marijuana dispensary on Mt. Hope Avenue were robbed Friday evening. Then the Domino's Pizza on West Saginaw was robbed Sunday night. Three suspects have been arrested in the last 2 months. Police believe these suspects are likely repeat offenders.

"There's at least 10 we believe he's involved in," said Lt. Garcia said of suspect Justin Walker who was arrested on December 22.

Of the 30 total armed robberies only two were unsuccessful. Friday one thief walked away with nothing. On Christmas Eve a woman walked into Alternative Medicine dispensary and slipped a note under the partition. According to employees, the note read, "Give me all your money, I have a gun." But the dispensary employees say they aren't afraid of thieves because of the store's security measures and bulletproof glass.

"Just because of the bulletproof glass is there, it gives them a sense they're ok. You should never have to work at a job and not be able to assume you'll be safe," said Mattew McGill, the owner of Alternative Medicine.

Alternative Medicine also uses surveillance cameras, barred windows, and stainless steel walls to ensure their employees and customers are safe.

"Actually, I feel safer here, that's why I come here," said Sam, an Alternative Medicine customer.

Even with a spike in robberies, Lansing police say bulletproof glass may not be necessary. It is ultimately a decision for business owners.

Some of these armed robberies have occured in broad daylight.
Lansing police recommend that businesses always have two staff members working and should consider investing in surveillance cameras.