Gess L.
MULTILPE ROBBERIES. UNSAFE. POOR SECURITY. Location: 1313 Hilliard Rome Rd E., Columbus, Ohio
On 9/3/23 Our KIA Sportage was broken into (smashed passenger rear window) while parked in the parking lot of a Cracker Barrel in Columbus, Ohio (1313 Hilliard Rome Rd E., Columbus, Ohio). One other car (also KIA Sportage) was broken into during this time. When police arrived on scene, the officer stated there have been "multiple break-ins" at this location. The police officer also reported that there are local offenders known as "the KIA boys" who have committed multiple thefts related to KIA cars in the area. A police report was made for both cars that were burgled during that time period. Upon inquiry, I was informed this was the SIXTH car break -in within the last 30 days on the parking lot, on the that shift alone. Upon inquiry, to the district manager about security measures and protocols (e.g. security guard, increased surveillance) since the increased break-ins, he deferred to their legal team and declined to respond. Not surprising and does not bode well for demonstrating care and concern of their patrons. We were told, by staff, that an incident report was being made and would be sent to corporate HQ. We have not heard from anyone since then. We were not provided with an incident number and so we do not have any tangible evidence a report was filed or is being reviewed. Since the incident, I attempted to get in touch by phone, but the automated answering service goes in a loop so you never speak to a human (there are complaints of this online. I also attempted to contact them by social media the day after the incident and nothing has happened since then. 6 MONTH HISTORY OF THEFT AT THIS LOCATION: A public records request for all car break-ins at this location over the last 6 months yielded the following results: TWENTY-SEVEN incident reports of car break-ins and theft, as well as a few incidents of wallets stolen of the person of patrons sitting in the restaurant and dining. Most reports indicate the same type and color car involved. Translation: This was foreseeable and Cracker Barrel had ample evidence and reason to enhance their security systems and protocols. I have full reports of each incident and the damages are hundreds all the way up to tens of thousands of dollars of property stolen and charges made to credit cards. Our Personal Damages: We have calculated an estimated $15,500 (and counting) in personal belongings stolen. This does not include non-monetery items, which cannot be replaced as well as repairs on our car and related collateral (e.g. car rental). Current Attempts to reach out: 1. Google Review, 2. Instagram, 3. Customer Service Phone Number This review is my 4th effort to reach Cracker Barrel. My 5th attempt will be a letter to their corporate offices. I assume no reply will be forthcoming.