A serial burglar has been apprehended in Austin after a string of break-ins at local stores, specifically targeting Royal Blue Grocery. The store’s owner reported that the suspect has committed over 10 burglaries at his establishments.
On Tuesday, law enforcement officials arrested 30-year-old Tyroan Telemacque following his latest break-in at the Royal Blue Grocery. This incident marks a continuation of his criminal activity, which began just days earlier.
The first burglary occurred early on Sunday morning at the East 6th Street location, where security footage captured Telemacque shattering a sliding window to gain entry. He was seen filling his backpack with stolen merchandise before escaping through the same window.
Telemacque did not stop there; within 24 hours, he breached another Royal Blue Grocery store located at 3rd Street and Lavaca. Surveillance footage revealed him jumping through the front glass to steal items from behind the counter.
Craig Staley, the owner of Royal Blue Grocery, expressed his frustration, stating, “We know this individual all too well. That made his 12th break-in at one of our stores.” He noted that each break-in incurs significant costs, ranging from $3,000 to $5,000, which is unsustainable for the business.
Staley’s familiarity with Telemacque’s appearance ultimately led to his arrest. After spotting him downtown, he reported it to the police, who were already aware of an outstanding warrant for Telemacque.
Currently, Telemacque is being held in the Travis County Jail on two felony burglary charges, adding to his lengthy criminal record. Since 2017, he has accumulated over 40 felony and misdemeanor charges in Travis County, including theft, burglary, trespassing, and assault. His total sentences amount to more than 71 months.
Prior to the recent incidents at Royal Blue, Telemacque faced a separate burglary charge and had been in custody since December. He was deemed incompetent to stand trial in January but regained his competency in May, leading to a guilty plea on a lesser charge and a subsequent release.
Staley voiced his concerns about the ongoing cycle of crime, emphasizing that he believes the pattern will continue. He criticized the local District Attorney’s office for their lack of communication regarding Telemacque’s cases, despite previous responsiveness.
In defense, the Travis County District Attorney’s Office remarked that they have effectively prosecuted Telemacque on multiple occasions and are committed to collaborating with law enforcement to ensure accountability.
Despite the challenges posed by these burglaries, Staley remains determined to keep his business operational. He acknowledged that while the situation is difficult, Royal Blue Grocery plans to endure.
Staley also noted improvements in safety at his downtown locations, attributing this to the Austin Police Department’s efforts. He praised the work of the Downtown Area Command Public Order Team, which focuses on enhancing public safety and connecting individuals in need of housing or mental health services with appropriate resources.
As a result of these safety measures, Staley has reopened the restrooms in his stores, which had previously been closed due to drug-related activities.
