Concern spread Friday night in Rome after police activity at a local business along Erie Boulevard West drew attention from residents and customers in the area.
According to the Rome Police Department, officers with the Patrol Division responded on May 22, 2026, at approximately 8:00 p.m. to a reported larceny involving the alleged theft of a tip jar from the Domino’s restaurant located at 113 Erie Boulevard West.
Police stated that while officers were investigating the initial complaint, a female victim reportedly approached them and alleged that the same suspect had just stolen her vape pen.
According to police, investigators determined the suspect — identified as Ashleigh P. Rimiller, 32 — allegedly removed a backpack belonging to the victim, took a vape pen from inside the bag, and fled the scene.
Authorities say officers later located the suspect a short distance away and took her into custody without further incident.
Police report that Rimiller was charged with Robbery in the Third Degree and Petit Larceny. She was processed at Rome Police Headquarters and transported to the Oneida County Jail for arraignment and detention.
Incidents like this raise concerns for local businesses and customers alike, especially when an alleged theft reportedly escalates while officers are already actively investigating another complaint at the same location.
Residents are often left asking whether enough is being done to deter repeat theft-related incidents and protect local businesses already facing enough challenges.
What are your thoughts? Should stronger penalties be considered for repeat theft-related incidents affecting local businesses?
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Please avoid posting threats, personal information, or unverified accusations in comments.
All suspects are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. The Hillbilly Media reports information based on police statements, public records, scanner traffic, and other verified sources available at the time of publication. Charges may later be reduced, modified, or dismissed. Please keep comments respectful and avoid posting threats, personal information, or unverified accusations. Source: Rome Police Department social media release

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