Over the weekend, multiple storage units were broken into at New Frontier Self Storage in Laurel. This incident raises security concerns for both renters and the company managing the facility.
LAUREL, Mont. – On Friday, January 17, four locks were found missing from storage units at Laurel New Frontier Self Storage.
Candi DuBois, the site manager, discovered the lockless units during a routine security check. After confirming with the renters, it became clear that this was a crime rather than a coincidence.
“It’s disheartening to know that people put their stuff here and they think it’s safe and we do our best to protect it,” said DuBois.
Locks were replaced immediately, but three renters confirmed that items, including motorbikes and televisions, had been taken. DuBois suspects bolt cutters were used to cut the locks but is unsure when or how items like clothes, electronics and motor bikes were stolen.
“When I have failed, I feel horrible too to know that someone is coming on here and compromising everyone else’s stuff,” she added.
New Frontier has 24/7 surveillance cameras, but DuBois only recently gained access to the footage due to a change in upper management. She is now working with authorities to review footage and keypad entry data to determine when the crime occurred and who might be responsible.
DuBois advises renters to inventory and photograph their items before leaving the site. “That way if something like this does happen, you aren’t fumbling, and wondering what was in there?” she said.
Captain Jarred Anglin of the Laurel Police Department recommends keeping lists and photos of stored items, knowing serial numbers, and using heavy-duty locks if possible. He also suggests avoiding storing expensive or valuable items in storage units.
DuBois notes that insurance can provide financial protection in case of theft. The self-storage site plans to update its security measures and continue collaborating with law enforcement to find those responsible.
The investigation is ongoing with the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office according to Sheriff Mike Linder.
Updates will be provided as developments occur.
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