Federal and local authorities in St. Louis are requesting that anyone with information on two burglars suspected of robbing several stores in the Midwest and Southern U.S. to come forward.

The FBI and working with the St. Louis Police Department to solve the series of burglaries, says a crime alert issued by the Jewelers’ Security Alliance. The burglary suspects drill the locks to enter retail premises, targeting antique malls, enter and pry open the doors of jewelry showcases, only rarely breaking the glass. They take jewelry that is easily melted down or untraceable, precious metals and collectible coins. Surveillance videos have shown that the suspects are two males who enter with light blue/grey Rubbermaid containers. Suspects case the premises before the burglaries and go straight to the jewelry showcases.

The team of burglars have hit within a 150 mile radius of the following locations between January and June 2006: Hanover, Ill.; Beachwood, Ohio; Omaha, Neb.; Coralville, Iowa; Kennesaw, Ga.; Woodbury, Minn.; and Madison, Wisc. They also may have been to Indiana.

Two suspects have been identified through the surveillance videos. The first is said to be six feet eight inches tall and weighs 165 pounds. He usually wears a gray “hoodie,” blue jeans and white tennis shoes. His face is covered with a mask and wearing gloves. The second suspect is approximately six foot two inches tall and weights 210 pounds. He usually wears a dark-colored jacket, dark hat, mask, and dark gloves.

JCK