By Stephanie Wurtz
s.wurtz@krdo.com

COLORADO SPRINGS - The search is on for the sword-wielding thief who tried to rob two convenience stores early Wednesday morning.  The weapon is described as a Star Trek Klingon-type sword called a "Batleth." 

The would-be samurai first hit the 7-11 store near Bijou and Spruce in Colorado Springs about 2:00a.m.  Everyone who hears about the crime has the same reaction: a sword?  But the business owner next door to the 7-11 says crimes, even this one, aren't a joke. 

"I'm surprised but I'm not surprised, how's that?" says Michael Morrissey who owns Drive In Liquor, "with the economy, I think it's become more prevalent."  Robberies in general may be a sign of the times, but a thief, armed with a sword demanding cash, is certainly unusual. 

"It could be used as a dangerous weapon," says Lt. David Whitlock with the Colorado Springs Police Department, "we didn't think it was a toy and neither did the victims, they felt threatened."  No matter the weapon, Morrissey says his employees are more valuable than the cash drawer. 

"I tell my people, it's not worth it, just give them the money and let them leave," Morrissey says, "don't react to it."  The robber did get some money from the store on Spruce.  About 20 minutes later, a second report came in to police from the 7-11 store North Union. 

"The descriptions are very similar," Whitlock says, "as well as the weapon and the uniqueness of that certainly makes us believe it was the same individual."  The suspect didn't get any money at the second 7-11.  Morrissey says in his store's neighborhood, people watch out for each other. 

"We don't leave people by themselves," Morrissey says, "there's less chance someone's going to come in and rob you when have two people."  Police say they're hoping to get information from someone who knows a man who owns the distinctive sword. 

They're also reviewing surveillance video.  The suspect is described as a white male in a black jacket, blue jeans and wearing a black mask.

The suspect is described as white male, about 28 years old, 6 foot tall, with a medium build.  If you have any information, call CSPD at 444-7000.

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