There’s a new kind of smash-and-grab that’s becoming popular among criminals. Instead of stealing money from the ATM, they take the entire machine.

Thieves rammed through a wall to steal an ATM from the General Store on Hwy. 550 this week.

The vehicle used in the crime, as well as the empty ATM, were found about a mile away from the store. Sheriff Steve Rushing said the vehicle was likely stolen.

The damage to the store was significant — Rushing estimated it to be several thousand dollars.

It’s the same thing that’s been happening more frequently in Jackson lately. As many as five ATMS were targeted in the Jackson area over the summer. Just like at the General Store, thieves smashed windows, walls and doors to get to the ATM inside.

These crimes not only affect the financial institutions that service the ATMs, but business owners as well —  repairing a smashed wall can be a significant burden for a small business.

Mississippi is not unique when it comes to these crimes. Media reports show similar ATM smash-and-grabs taking place across the country.

These types of crimes are difficult to prevent, but catching the suspects will go a long way toward that.

Anyone with information about the General Store burglary is asked to call the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office at 601-833-5251 or CrimeStoppers at 601-823-0150. Tips leading to an arrest may be eligible for a cash reward up to $1,000.