Mother and Son Arrested for Burglary at Kennewick Sports Cards Shop - What You Should Know

Mother and Son Arrested After Tri-Cities Business Burglary

A mother and son duo found themselves in serious trouble after their alleged involvement in a burglary at On the Marq Sports Cards, a small business in Kennewick, Washington. It was early Friday morning when an alarm triggered at approximately 4:25 a.m., alerting the shop's owner. Utilizing surveillance footage, the owner witnessed someone stuffing items into a garbage bag, prompting him to contact authorities.

Upon arrival, Kennewick police discovered that a suspect had forcibly entered the store. After a brief foot chase, they apprehended 37-year-old Matthew R. Dobson, who was found with incriminating evidence. Inside his vehicle, officers located a large pry bar, various tools, and stolen trading card packages, indicating a premeditated burglary attempt.

Legal Consequences and Community Impact

In addition to Dobson, his mother, 61-year-old Robin M. Griffin, was also arrested. Initially, she denied any knowledge of her son’s actions. Authorities have charged her with false reporting, while Dobson faces more severe allegations, including first-degree burglary and obstructing law enforcement. After her release without bail, the fate of Dobson remains uncertain; he is still in custody with bail set at $200,000.

Cases like this highlight the risks small businesses face in communities. Local shop owners often have limited resources to safeguard their establishments, making them more vulnerable to criminal activity. The burglary of On the Marq is a reminder of the critical importance of community vigilance and support.

Strengthening Community Bonds

The incident has sparked conversations among nearby business owners about improving security measures and collaborating more closely with local law enforcement. Many are examining their own security practices, seeing this incident as a wake-up call to ensure safety and protect their livelihoods.

This burglary is not just about theft; it illustrates the broader challenges small businesses encounter daily. With collaborative efforts to enhance security and community awareness, local shops can thrive despite the risks they face. Small businesses represent the heart of our communities and require our unwavering support to minimize the threat of crime and strengthen community ties.