Break-in at Cookie Crimes ice cream shop in Lethbridge costs business thousands

The owners of a small ice cream parlor in Lethbridge called Cookie Crimes are reeling after being the victims of a real crime for what they say is the third time this year.

Lethbridge police say two suspects smashed the front window of the shop on Sixth Street south and entered the store at about 1:30 a.m. on Monday, officials said in a release.

Through the night, eight more culprits were seen on video surveillance cameras entering the business and stealing from the shop, police said.

In a post on Facebook, the shop's owners said their entire stock was stolen.

"And what pints weren't stolen, were left in the warm to melt," the post said.

"Please be patient with us as we replenish our stock. Commit Cookie Crimes, not real crimes!"

Police said more than $1,500 worth of ice cream and other property was stolen and damages to the business are estimated at $1,000.

A police search of the downtown core didn't turn up anyone matching the description of the subjects seen on video surveillance.

Anyone with information about the break-in is asked to call police at 403-328-4444 and reference file 24018943.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers.