In the early hours of Thursday, thieves broke into the Wayne Curry Sports and Learning Center in Landover and stole its ATM machine. The center, an important community resource, was closed for investigation starting from Friday morning. Regular patrons found out about the theft only when the center reopened, leading to shock and concern among them.
The facility’s fields and tracks are popular among seniors and fitness enthusiasts who visit it regularly. Many were left wondering why such a crime had occurred, especially since ATMs in the building often run out of cash. Some speculated that desperation drove the act of stealing ATM machines from the Wayne Curry athletic facility. One patron commented that it was not a way to get rich.
Security cameras at the facility captured footage of the incident, which could aid in investigations. Prince George’s County Police Chief Malik Aziz and Maryland Congressman Glenn Ivey discussed ATM thefts at a press conference on Thursday, just hours before the robbery occurred. They emphasized that ATM theft is not a minor or victimless crime as it can become increasingly violent and threatening to individuals. The Safe Access to Cash Act would treat ATM thefts like bank robberies and allow law enforcement agencies to investigate these crimes more effectively, often carried out by organized criminal groups.
Aziz urged people to report any suspicious activity around ATMs to local authorities immediately, emphasizing that every case is crucial in preventing future crimes of this nature. Meanwhile, Maryland-National Capital Park Police are currently investigating the recent robbery at the Wayne Curry Sports and Learning Center.
