Police Search for Coke Machine Thief

By Jon Jordan, NEWS 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- A theft caught on tape is shedding light on the importance of security cameras. Several years ago the tiny cameras were unheard of, but now they're lurking in the least likely places.

Soda machines can carry a large amount of money at any given time and it now many are carrying cameras as well.

One such camera, tucked back in a soda machine, caught a man stealing the cash inside, putting a clear picture of his face for all to see.

"It should serve as a warning," Oklahoma City Police Sgt. Gary Knight said.

While no one may see a robbery take place during the act, it is likely being taped.

"It protects my customer and it protects me," Byron Gambulos said.

Gambulos owns Byron's Liquor Warehouse, 23rd St. and Broadway Avenue, and knows the importance of a security camera, so much so, he has 21 one of them protecting his business and his prices.

"If I have a lot of shoplifting, obviously I'm gonna go up on my prices," said Gambulos. "With low shoplifting I can cut my prices and get even more than what I am."

Elizabeth Jones owns Spy Gear and says her biggest customers these days are those looking to use them to protect their homes.

"A lot of times it is just a camera for insurance, in case someone breaks in and I've seen a lot of that," Jones said.

Police stats show burglaries are up 22 percent from last year.

"This has certainly helped us solve a lot of crimes years ago would have gone unsolved," Sgt. Knight said.

If you have any information that could lead to the arrest of the man caught on the soda machine camera you are urged to call Crime Stoppers at 235 - 7300.