A weekly roundup of jewelry store crimes
with related tips from JCK:

• A Decatur, Ala., man was arrested on July 25 in connection with smash-and-grab thefts at two jewelry stores, according to a local news
source. Michael Welch is charged with two counts of third degree burglary for
allegedly stealing jewelry from Southern Bullion Coin and Jewelry and Jimmy
Smith Jewelers on July 20. According to police, a large amount of blood was
found at both scenes. Police named Welch as a suspect after confirming he had
several cuts to his hands, consistent with breaking glass.

The Jewelers’ Security Alliance says jewelers should not
wipe or try to clean cases or other surfaces before the police respond.

• Employees at a James City County, Va., jewelry store were
tied up during a theft on July 26, according to a local news source. During the
theft, one of the employees of Goodman & Sons Jewelers hit the silent alarm
button. The thieves had instruments and removed Rolex watches and diamonds from
the display cases by using keys from the employees. They escaped in an SUV as
police arrived and a chase ensued. A shootout occurred during the chase and one
suspect was shot. Police conducted a search for the second suspect.

The JSA says jewelers should expect to be tied up or
handcuffed during a theft and do as they are told to avoid injury.

• A Toledo, Ohio, jewelry store became the fourth jewelry
store in the area in the last month to fall victim to an armed robbery,
according to a local news report. A suspect forced employees from Americash
Jewelry & Pawn into the bathroom on July 27. According to police, a store
employee attempted to grab the store gun to fend off the suspect, but the
suspect threatened to shoot the employee. The suspect fled with an undetermined
amount of jewelry and the handgun. Police have no suspects but have released
surveillance video.

The Manual of Jewelry
Security says jewelers should never attempt to reach for a concealed
weapon. “Assume that the robber will shoot without hesitation,” the Manual says.

JCK