The Jewelers’ Security Alliance has issued a burglary warning for jewelers in Texas. The organization says it has received 21 reports of burglaries or attempted burglaries in the state since Jan. 1, “which is over twice as many as occurred during that same time period in each of the last several years.”

The burglaries have occurred in the Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston, Waco, Austin, and San Antonio areas, JSA said in its warming. JSA has previously issued crime alerts for for Bedford on Jan. 31 and Waco on May 10.

“In many instances the burglars simply smashed a glass door to gain entry and then smashed cases, taking jewelry left in showcases overnight,” the statement said. “Other methods have included cutting holes in the roof or removing air conditioning units to gain entry. In some instances the burglars have cut alarm lines or destroyed alarm boxes. In only two instances reported to JSA have the burglars had the time, skill, and tools to enter safes.”

Arrests were made in connection with four of the burglaries, three of which involved teenagers arrested at the scene, JSA said.

JSA recommends that jewelers should never leave merchandise out overnight, regardless of value. “Even if your insurance company permits you to leave goods out of your safe up to a certain value, nevertheless, put all your goods away,” JSA said in its statement. “If you do not have enough room in your main safe, consider buying a second, less expensive safe for your lower-end merchandise. At the very least, do not leave items in showcases. Lower-end goods that you ordinarily leave out should instead be placed out of sight in a locked cabinet or drawer.”

JCK