ROME, NY — For weeks now, people around Rome have been hearing the same thing over and over again—another smoke shop hit, another break-in, another business owner left dealing with the mess.

Now it looks like police may have finally caught up to the people behind it.

According to the Rome Police Department, officers were dispatched around 4:02 AM on April 27 to an alarm activation at Yorke’s Smoke Shop on Black River Boulevard. But this wasn’t just another call—it turned into something bigger.

Police say within minutes of that alarm, patrol officers spotted a vehicle matching the description tied to the suspected burglaries. A traffic stop was conducted not long after.

Two males were detained at the scene.

Following an investigation involving detectives and the juvenile aid division, police identified the suspects as a 19-year-old from Whitesboro and a 17-year-old juvenile. Both are now facing burglary charges in the 3rd degree.

The 19-year-old was processed and released pending an appearance in Rome City Court. The 17-year-old was transported to Oneida County Court in Utica for arraignment.

But here’s the part people shouldn’t ignore—this case may not be done.

Police confirmed that burglary investigations tied to these incidents are still ongoing, and additional charges could be filed.

Which raises the bigger question…

How many businesses were hit before this stop happened?

Because ask around, and you’ll hear it—this wasn’t just one shop. This was a pattern. And every time something like this happens, it’s not just inventory that’s lost. It’s time, money, stress, and sometimes the breaking point for small business owners trying to stay afloat.

Rome’s not some big city where this stuff just blends into the noise. People notice. Business owners talk. And when it keeps happening, people start asking what’s really going on.

Now it looks like there may finally be some answers—but we’re not there yet.

If more charges come down, this story isn’t over.

And if you’re a business owner in the area, you’re probably watching this one real close.


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