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Chattanooga, TN- Man pleads guilty to Chattanooga jewelry store robbery with 57-month prison sentence deal.

by Armed RobberyArrestsCrime Suspects

Chattanooga, TN– A man pleaded guilty Wednesday in Chattanooga’s federal court to a 2021 jewelry store robbery in Hamilton Place mall.

Joshua Lishun Brewer, 29, is expected to serve a 57-month prison sentence for obstructing, delaying and affecting interstate commerce by committing a robbery at Markman’s Diamonds.

“It’s a big decision not only in your life but in the life of the case,” Magistrate Judge Mike Dumitru said from the bench.

The details of the robbery were not discussed in court, but Brewer’s plea agreement detailed the Dec. 17, 2021, incident.

Brewer went inside Markman’s Diamonds with two unknown accomplices and started to yell at those inside to get down, the plea said.

A store employee told authorities she hid underneath a desk and watched as her colleagues were zip-tied at gun point, the plea said.

The woman allegedly told Chattanooga police officers the robbers took her wallet, cell phone and an assortment of jewelry from the store.

When police recovered her phone, it was found to have Brewer’s thumbprint on it, according to the plea.

Markman’s has been the target of repeated burglaries over the decades — one in 1986, 2012 and 2016, according to Chattanooga Times Free Press archives.

Dumitru said he had only met Brewer twice in the worst possible circumstances a person could meet somebody.

Brewer is a young man, who still has time to turn his life around after he serves his sentence, Dumitru said. He wished Brewer luck and said to think of loved ones and the future.

“I hope that your life ends up exactly the way you want it to,” Dumitru said to Brewer.

He is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 9.

Brewer is also facing over a dozen state-level charges including aggravated kidnapping, aggravated assault, aggravated robbery, theft over $10,000 and false imprisonment, according to the Hamilton County Criminal Court clerk’s office.

Article provided by the Chattanooga Times, click HERE to view article.

jeweler arrest

Decatur, GA – Trinity man charged for stealing $114k from Decatur jewelry store he worked at for decades

by ArrestsCrime SuspectsDaily Blog

Decatur, GA– A former jeweler who had worked at Jimmy Smith Jewelers for three decades was charged last Tuesday with stealing more than $114,000 in jewelry and money from the store.

Joel Phillip Ghrigsby, 63, was charged with first-degree theft of property and transported to Morgan County Jail, where he was initially held in lieu of a $30,000 bond, jail records show, which was since amended to a $7,500 cash-only bond. He remained in jail Wednesday evening, according to jail records.

On Aug. 6, a Decatur business owner reported an internal theft from the business, according to the affidavit. Ghrigsby was then developed as a suspect.

On Aug. 12, Decatur police, with assistance from the Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office, served a search and arrest warrant at a residence in the 20000 block of County Road 460 in Trinity, according to police, and Ghrigsby was placed under arrest.

According to the affidavit, Ghrigsby stole more than $114,000 in property over the past five years “and much more over the past 10 years.”

Jimmy Smith of Jimmy Smith Jewelers on Wednesday said the stolen property did not include customers’ jewelry or products. The affidavit said Ghrigsby stole jewelry, money and precious metals from the business.

Smith said Ghrigsby had worked as a jeweler at the store for more than 30 years and retired in January 2024. He last spoke with Ghrigsby a few months ago.

“His wife worked here, too,” Smith said. “Just great people; this is such a shock to me. I’d say we had a great working relationship when he decided to retire.”

Ghrigsby had dropped his store-provided benefits in favor of a Christian-based health care sharing program, according to Smith, then took a job driving a school bus for Morgan County Schools to regain benefits while still working at the store. After he retired, Smith was alerted about some of the content Ghrigsby was posting on Facebook.

“Someone told me he’d been going on cruises and trips,” Smith said. “Sounds like he was having a big time.”

According to his Facebook page, Ghrigsby also works as a bankruptcy petition specialist and is a certified paralegal and notary public. Smith said Ghrigsby served as a notary public for him and his employees.

Article provided by the Moultan Advertiser, click HERE to view article.

oakland

Oakland, CA- Jewelry store rammed with vehicle and robbed with firearms in broad daylight.

by Armed RobberyCrimesSmash and Grab

OAKLAND, Calif. – An armed robbery took place Monday afternoon at an Oakland jewelry store, after the business was rammed with a vehicle that was left at the scene, police say.

The Oakland Police Department said the business, located at the 700 block of International Boulevard, was significantly damaged. Video from the scene shows the front security gate is broken down at Kim Tim jewelry.

Employees were seen trying to clear and assess the damage. There was shattered glass everywhere near the front of the store.

Police said the robbery happened just before 1:45 p.m. and that officers arrived at the scene to investigate.

An employee told police someone used a vehicle to ram the store. That’s when police say some people entered with firearms and took items from the business before fleeing the area. The vehicle was left at the scene.

Police said they are actively investigating this case. They asked the public for any video or photos that may help with their investigation.

Police did not say if anyone was injured. It is not known what was taken or how valuable the items may be. Police did not offer any suspect information, nor did they indicate if any arrests have been made.

To view article provided by Fox 2 KTVU News, click HERE.

If you have any information regarding this incident or information on these criminals, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.

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VALDOSTA, GA- GRAB AND RUN

by Crime SuspectsCrimesDaily BlogGrab and Run

Valdosta, GA– On August 08, 2025, a jeweler was the victim of a grab and run theft. A lone male entered the location and began looking at chains and bracelets. After several minutes, the male decided to apply for a credit line but was declined. Next, the male stated he would buy an item. The employee took the item to the register and began ringing up the sale. While doing so, the male stated he wanted to see another bracelet. The employee the bracelet to the showcase to show the male a different item. However, the male grabbed the above item out of the employees’ hand and began running out of the store. Prior to exiting, the male turned as said “I’m sorry”. Witnesses observed the male enter a tan Dodge Charger with Florida tags. In addition, the male left a GA identification card (photo depicted above) behind. A police report was filed.

Suspect(s) Description: Male, Black, 5’11”, thin build, early 30’s, wearing a Black and Red Jordan Basketball Jersey, Jordan Hat, black pants

If you have any information regarding this incident or information on these criminals, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.

seattle

Seattle, WA- Jewelry store robbed in broad daylight.

by Armed RobberyCrime SuspectsCrimes

Seattle, WA– Menashe & Sons Jewelers, located right in the heart of the West Seattle Junction, was ambushed by a group of four masked men armed with hammers and bear spray, police said.

The smash-and-grab robbery happened around noon, with officers saying the robbers smashed the locked front glass door and broke into six glass display cases. They reportedly made off with a $125k emerald necklace, Rolex watches valued at $700k-$800k, a platinum diamond and a large amount of gold jewelry.

Seattle police say the suspects stole an estimated $2 million worth of jewelry, diamonds and luxury watches in 90 seconds. No injuries to victims or witnesses were reported in the heist.

The robbers left in a vehicle, and officers are still searching the area. The suspects and their vehicle have not yet been located, nor has a description been released.

Seattle Police Chief Shon Barnes was also at the crime scene, according to the West Seattle Junction Association. Chief Barnes was already scheduled to be in West Seattle for the City Council District 1 Community Safety Forum later that night.

Article provided by Fox 13 Seattle.

If you have any information regarding this incident or information on these criminals, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.

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HOWELL, MI- Jewelry store robbery, with possible connection to 08/05/25 theft in Landsing, MI.

by Armed RobberyCrime SuspectsCrimesGrab and Run

Howell, MI- On August 09, 2025, A jewelry store was the victim a robbery, in which a weapon was displayed. The suspect first entered the location at approximately 5:15, looked at several pieces of jewelry including gold bracelets, gold chains, and clearance jewelry. The suspect left at approximately 5:30 indicating that he would return. The suspect returned to the location at 6:57 pm and asked to look at gold bracelets and gold chains again. He tried on a gold bracelet, returned the bracelet, then asked to try on a gold chain. The employee put the chain on the suspect, he looked in the mirror briefly, then slowly walked towards the front of the store. The employee asked the suspect if he forgot something. As he was exiting the store, he removed a weapon from inside his clothing, showed it, then ran from the store. There were no injuries reported.

Suspect(s) Description: Black male, 20 to 25 years old, 6’2”, 180 lbs., short hair that appeared to be freshly cut, wearing black pants, white t-shirt under a black North face jacket with a hood, white medical mask, black Nike shoes.

NOTE: This suspect fits the description of the suspect who committed the grab and run theft at a Jewelry store in the Lansing Mall, Lansing, MI on 8/5/25. (Photos Depicted below)

If you have any information regarding these incidents or information on this criminal, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.

colorADO

Wheat Ridge, Colorado – man found guilty of murdering jewelry store owner during robbery.

by ArrestsCrime SuspectsCrimesMurder of Jeweler

Wheat Ridge, CO– A jury in Colorado has found Charles Robinson Shay guilty of murdering a jewelry store owner during a robbery. Peter Damian Arguello was shot and killed at his Wheat Ridge jewelry store on Nov. 29, 2023.

Wheat Ridge police officers rushed to the business in the 7200 block of W 38th Ave. just after 11 a.m. that day after shots were heard. Witnesses told police that Arguello died in the parking lot behind the business.

Shay was found guilty on 11 counts, including first-degree murder, for shooting and killing Arguello during the robbery at Peter Damian Fine Jewelry & Antiques. Those counts are first-degree murder, second-degree murder, second-degree kidnapping, aggravated robbery, second-degree motor vehicle theft, second-degree arson, tampering with physical evidence, second-degree motor vehicle theft, second-degree burglary and habitual criminal- a sentence enhancer.

A first-degree murder conviction carries a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole in Colorado. Shay is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 10.

A second suspect in the deadly shooting and jewelry store burglary, Michael McCormack, is scheduled to stand trial on Aug. 22.

Article provided by CBS News. Click HERE to view article.

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Portland, Oregon- Suspects identified, indicted and wanted by police after $3K gold coin theft.

by Crime NewsCrime SuspectsCrimesdistraction theft

PORTLAND OR– Two women have been identified and indicted for allegedly stealing a high-value gold coin from a Portland business.

The suspects are 30-year-old Flavia Avram of Kent and 29-year-old Ariana Muntean of Lynnwood. Both have outstanding arrest warrants.

According to Portland Police, a tip from FOX 12 during earlier coverage of the case led them to contact Lynnwood Police, who had previously identified the suspects in connection with crimes committed in Washington. This information ultimately led to their indictment in Portland.

According to PPB, in June the two women stole a gold one-ounce Maple Leaf coin worth $3,400 from Portland Precious Metals on Southeast 52nd Avenue. Store owner Michael Kakoullis says the thieves posed as customers and managed to take the coin while distracting an employee.

“They were really good, well planned out. They knew what they were doing; they were coming here for that,” said Kakoullis.

The coin was reportedly taken while the women inquired about other coins. As the employee focused on the merchandise, Kakoullis said one of the suspects palmed the coin while the other blocked the view.

“She was kind of palming that one maple leaf coin, and as she was pulling, her friend put her hand in front to block the view of her, and then it was really quick into her purse,” said Kakoullis.

According to police in Washington, days before the pair walked into Portland Precious Metals, the duo stole a necklace worth nearly $10,000 from a Zales Jewelry store in Lynwood.

On the same day, investigators said the suspects went to a clothing store in Lakewood, where they shorted an employee out of $400 in cash and stole a dress.

According to PPB, on July 6 an officer contacted the Lynnwood Police Department about the case and confirmed the suspects had been identified.

The case was presented to a Grand Jury on July 29, and a true bill was issued, meaning there is probable cause that the women with two counts of felony first-degree theft.

The two suspects remain at large.

If you have any information regarding this incident or information on these criminals, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.

Article provided by Fox 12 News Oregon. Click HERE to view.

lynwood

LYNNWOOD, WA- GRAB AND RUN

by Daily BlogGrab and Run

Lynnwood, WA– On August 6, 2025, Alderwood Mall, a jewelry store experienced a grab and run theft by a lone female. The suspect entered the store and indicated she was looking for a gold chain for her husband’s birthday.  The female selected a 24 inch curb necklace chain. Once it was handed to her she fled from the store without making payment period from all security was advised and a report filed with local police. No person was injured in this incident.

Suspect(s) Description: Suspect is described as a 35 year old white female with a slim build approximately 5 foot 2 inches tall. She wore light blue leggings or jogging pants with a light blue tank top under a white/pink top with a Gray and pink pattern on the front. The suspect had dark black hair tied up in a messy bun and gold bracelets on her right wrist. There were no obvious signs of tattoos or scars. Staff did not notice a distinguishable accent.

If you have any information regarding this incident or information on this criminal, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.

kays4

Myrtle Beach, SC – Distraction Theft.

by Crime SuspectsDaily Blogdistraction theft

Myrtle Beach, SC– It was reported on August 01, 2025, that a distraction theft occurred at the Coastal Grand mall jewelry store on July 07, 2025. After completing case counts, the items were discovered missing. After reviewing video, it was determined the merchandise was stolen on July 7th during a distraction theft, in which an employee was showing bracelets and chains to the male depicted above. It was learned the male distracted the employee in the direction away from his hands. The male grabbed gold merchandise and dropped the merchandise into his left palm. Then, the male placed his cell phone in his left hand to hide the merchandise. Seconds later, the male informed the employee that he wanted to buy a gold chain and began walking to the register. While doing so, the male concealed the merchandise in his left pocket. Once they arrived at the register, the male stated he wanted to use his girlfriend’s credit card. The male stated he was going into the mall to get her, and he would be back. He never returned. A police report was filed.

Suspect(s) Description:  Male, Black, mid-50’s, 5’07”, thin build, scruffy gray beard, wearing a dark shirt, hat, shorts, white socks, slides

If you have any information regarding this incident or information on this criminal, please contact the Jewelers’ Security Alliance at jsa2@jewelerssecurity.org or 212-687-0328.