Police are investigating the theft of more than $800,000 in jewelry, cash and guns from a Glendora jewelry store. Surveillance video provided by the owner of Desire Jewelry on North Glendora Avenue indicates the thieves broke in through the ceiling around 11:15 p.m. on May 15 night and worked to drill through two steel safe units for approximately six hours before finally leaving.
Detailed Breakdown of the Incident
The burglars, believed to be a group of four to five individuals, conducted a well-planned break-in. They entered the store by drilling through the roof around 11:15 p.m. They then spent approximately six hours drilling into two steel safes, bypassing the store’s alarm system. Although the alarm was triggered, police were not notified, suggesting the burglars may have had prior knowledge of the system’s operation.
Kassis reported that the thieves stole around 600 carats of diamonds and numerous gold chains, among other items meant for repair.
Investigation and Security Concerns
The Glendora Police Department is actively investigating the burglary. Key evidence includes fingerprints and blood found at the scene, which may help identify the perpetrators. Additionally, surveillance footage captured partial images of the thieves, although their identities remain unclear.
In response to the heist, Kassis has also hired a private detective. Preliminary findings suggest the burglary was sophisticated and planned, with the thieves having a considerable understanding of the store’s layout and security measures.
Implications for Jewelers
This heist serves as a critical warning for our industry to evaluate and upgrade security protocols. The burglars’ sophisticated methods, such as disabling the alarm system and using heavy-duty tools, highlight the need for more advanced security measures. We should consider investing in high-tech alarm systems with backup communication channels, extensive surveillance coverage, and thorough insurance plans to cover potential losses.
Additionally, vigilance regarding store visitors is essential. Kassis’s suspicion that he was watched for an extended period suggests that we need to monitor who enters our stores and be cautious of unusual behavior. The burglary at Desiré Jewelry emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced security and constant vigilance within our industry. As investigations proceed, our community must take proactive steps to safeguard our assets and reduce the risk of future incidents.
