FERGUS FALLS, MN – A carefully planned burglary at a Casey’s gas station last month has led to the arrest of two former employees and an accomplice. The incident raises serious concerns about insider threats and the importance of securing business assets even after employees leave.
Authorities say the Casey’s on East Vernon Avenue was robbed in the early morning hours of December 18th. Using a key and security code, three suspects gained entry, disabled the alarm system, and unplugged security cameras. They walked away with $5,000 in cash and more than 30 cartons of cigarettes.
Despite their efforts to erase evidence, investigators were able to identify a vehicle from remaining security footage, leading to the arrests of 39-year-old Justin Michael Hanson, 42-year-old Jennifer Joyce Loomer, and 44-year-old Ryan Joseph McGuire. Hanson and Loomer were former Casey’s employees who had been terminated prior to the break-in.
Search warrants of the suspects’ properties uncovered damning evidence, including a blue face mask matching the one seen on security footage, a set of keys labeled “Casey’s Safe,” multiple cartons of unopened cigarettes, and incriminating text messages—one of which read, “Jenny, we should go rob cigs from Casey’s.”
Following his arrest, McGuire admitted to the crime and provided a detailed account of how the break-in unfolded. The trio has since been charged with 2nd-degree burglary and receiving stolen property.
How This Could Have Been Prevented
This case is a textbook example of why businesses must rethink their security protocols when employees leave. Access keys, alarm codes, and other security credentials shouldn’t remain active once a team member departs—especially after a termination.
Solution providers like Amphion specialize in proactive locksmith services and managed key systems that prevent insider threats like this. With restricted keying systems, businesses can ensure that former employees’ access is immediately revoked, eliminating the risk of unauthorized entry. Managed access control allows businesses to reconfigure access codes and track usage in real time, ensuring only authorized personnel can enter restricted areas.
Had a proactive security solution been in place at this Casey’s location, stolen keys and outdated security codes wouldn’t have been an issue. The burglary could have been prevented entirely. Instead of reacting to a security breach, businesses should invest in systems that eliminate the risk before it becomes a crime scene.
For companies looking to protect their assets and prevent insider-driven theft, solutions like Amphion’s integrated access control and key management services are essential. Don’t wait until a break-in happens—secure your business before it’s too late.
