"He was very selective, only taking Vicodin or the synthetic form of Vicodin," said Orange County Sheriff's spokesman Jim Amormino.
On Tuesday about 4 a.m., authorities allege that the suspect entered by cutting a hole in the roof. Workers arrived to find the aftermath.
"It was like, 'Wow, not again,'" said pharmacist Leslie Figgins.
Although this type of break-in was a first at the pharmacy, Figgins who has been a pharmacist for 30 years says she has seen it happen elsewhere.
"Coming through the roof, this is my third one in less than two years," said Figgins.
Authorities will not say how much was stolen, but the drugs are worth thousands of dollars.
"The economy is the way that it is, and people are looking for a quick buck," said Figgins.
Authorities say getting to the goods wasn't so quick. At first the thief entered the wrong business, cutting two holes in the roof of a beauty salon at the other end of the mall.
"This has never happened," said a beauty salon employee.
Once the suspect found the pharmacy he was far from graceful. He tried to break the glass in front of the counter.
The suspect was described as a man between 5 feet-5 inches to 6 feet tall with a thin build.
He left after four minutes. Authorities are worried that the drugs will end up on the street.
Figgins understands the danger. Her brother died four years ago.
"He started when he was younger and it ended up taking his life because he couldn't get off of it," said Figgins. "It is a scary thing."
Anyone with information about the burglary can contact authorities at 1-866-TIP-OCSD (866) 847-6273.
