Crime Surge in Southeast Memphis Leaves Business Owners Seeking Action

News Summary

In Southeast Memphis, crime is on the rise, leaving local business owners feeling vulnerable and frustrated. Recent break-ins, including a burglary at L & W Supply, highlight ongoing security issues in the area. Despite a reported decrease in overall commercial thefts, concerns remain as business owners like John Mihovetz have experienced significant financial losses due to these incidents. Local politicians and law enforcement are working together to improve safety, but the community continues to demand more action to combat crime.

Crime Surge in Southeast Memphis Leaves Business Owners Seeking Action

In the heart of Southeast Memphis, business owners are feeling the heat as a rise in criminal activities continues to plague the area. They say they are frustrated and fed up, feeling like they are sitting ducks waiting for some much-needed help from local authorities. The latest incident occurred on a Sunday morning when police officers responded to a break-in at L & W Supply, which is located in the 1800 block of John Paul Drive off Lamar. This sorry chapter has been an ongoing saga that’s deepening the worries of business owners.

A California Owner Witnesses Chaos from Afar

One of the business owners affected is John Mihovetz, who owns a warehouse not too far from L & W Supply. Although he runs his operations all the way in California, Mihovetz was horrified to witness the tense moments of the burglary unfold from nearly 2,000 miles away. Reports indicate that the intruders wielded power tools, deftly cutting through a gate at his property, leading to extensive damage and theft.

His warehouse, an expansive 50,000 square feet, was stripped clean during the break-in. Thieves made off with significant amounts of plumbing wire, leaving Mihovetz reeling. The incident has not only set him back financially but has also stalled his plans to manufacture race car parts in Memphis.

Past Woes Recurring

This wasn’t L & W Supply’s first brush with crime. Just a while back, they faced a similar situation in January 2025. Following that break-in, a SkyCop camera was installed by police for extra security. However, the camera was later removed, paving the way for criminals to return and wreak havoc.

During the latest break-in at L & W Supply, thieves managed to break a lock on the back door but were fortunately thwarted by stacked pallets that blocked their entry further into the premises. Still, it’s a grim reminder that crime hasn’t fully retreated from the local scene.

Crime Statistics Paint a Complex Picture

The police chief has tapped into the power of improved communication between law enforcement and local businesses to explain this reduction. The department has been collaborating with railroad authorities to make adjustments that help reduce cargo theft, showcasing the power of strategic partnerships.

Community Efforts Against Theft Continue

Both BNSF Railway and FedEx have joined forces with local law enforcement, reaffirming their commitment to combat cargo theft and enhance the overall security measures. Industry leaders have acknowledged the critical importance of safety, particularly in a logistics hub like Memphis. These collaborative efforts seem to be showing positive outcomes, leading to fluctuating crime rates that have stirred mixed feelings among the community.

Local Politicians Share Hope and Anxiety

As business owners look to find a safer path forward, it seems they are banding together to demand action. Will Southeast Memphis emerge stronger from this turbulent time? Only time will tell, but for now, the collective hope for safety and security resonates in the air.

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Additional Resources

• Action News 5
• Fox 13 Memphis
• WREG
• Commercial Appeal
• Wikipedia: Crime in the United States