A disturbing trend across Greater Cleveland is part of larger problem state and nationwide.
Gun theft is up everywhere. Many local gun store owners have already dealt with break-ins or they're bracing for them.
"I thought at one point, maybe I should just shut down and move on to something else," said Cleveland Armory owner Todd Karam, after three smash and grab style break-ins. "They look for the easiest target. They're predators."
Now he takes everything off the walls and out of the cases to lock it up twice every single night.
"They're not just stealing a gun, you know they have other intentions with that gun," Karam said.
The Department of Justice Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives tracks weapons lost in Ohio, and they're up about 20% since their last report.
MORE: Read the report "Federal Fireams Licensee Thefts/Losses"
Another one of the most recent shops hit in Greater Cleveland, On Target Firearms in Parma, had also ramped up security.
RELATED: Attempted smash and grab at Parma gun store
Owner Dan Jambor said the three men responsible for major damage still haven't been caught.
"I have never heard of theft like this, the way it's going on now," Jambor said.
Like Karam, he's added more cameras, motion detectors, and window reinforcements.
Gun store owners who are usually competitors are now keeping in constant contact with each other--sharing tips and warnings about red flags.
Todd Karam told News 5 that's the best they can do.
"If they haven't done it already, they'll do it again. It's just a matter of time," he said.
