For the past 20 years, Sonitrol has proudly served as the trusted security partner for Aquil Restaurants, owned by longtime customer Mr. Richard Weld. We currently protect four of his restaurant locations with our verified security solutions. Recently, one of those locations experienced a forced entry break-in. Following the incident, we spoke with Mr. Weld to discuss his experience with Sonitrol and how our system responded during the event.
Prior to putting Sonitrol in your first store in 2005, did you have experience with any other security vendors?
“No not really. I have been around for over 40 years and when I joined Togo’s Deli’s they were using Sonitrol. They were very satisfied with the service, so I just called Sonitrol.”
Since that time, you have added three locations all using Sonitrol. What were some of the reasons you continued to use Sonitrol in your new locations?
“Quality of service and follow-up. I like how the company is managed. I like my sales rep, Anthony. Anthony is a good guy.”
You recently had a forced entry into one your restaurants. Can you tell me about that?
“There has been a trend of break-ins like this I think starting in LA. These are not your usual burglars, and they were very sophisticated in how they broke into my restaurant. For example, they did not break the window they removed the widow. Once inside they removed all the cameras that were installed. They had high tech equipment to open my safe. These were not a bunch of amateurs.”
What was the situation when you arrived on scene?
“The police were there, and they had someone in the back of the police car. The police got there in one minute. I asked them if they caught the second guy. They said what second guy. I informed them that before I left to come to the restaurant, I turned on the cameras from my house and I saw two people. I think they were surprised I had that information. They sent officers back inside and a second person was apprehended hiding in the ceiling.”
Wow! A couple of questions come to mind. Were you surprised that the police got there in one minute?
“No. I think Sonitrol has good relations with the police departments.”
So, from your house you can turn on a camera and see inside the restaurant in real time?
“Yes.”
We have talked about a successful experience, but we are always trying in improve on the service we provide. Anything you can mention that would meet your needs better in the future?
“A small thing. When we get a call that there is a problem some dispatchers provide more information than others.” I assured Mr. Weld I would past that information to the appropriate team members.” Something that has since been passed along to the appropriate team members.
Thank you, Mr. Weld, for taking the time to speak with us. All of us at Sonitrol of Silicon Valley truly appreciate your continued trust and partnership!