FBI investigating rise in smash and grab robberies in CT, NY and New England
An FBI agent is sharing more details about an increase in smash-and-grab robberies at jewelry stores.
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Steven Shapiro said the FBI has been looking into at least 20 burglaries, robberies, or attempted robberies at jewelry stores or kiosks. These crimes happened in Connecticut, New York, and across New England between last September and February.
Three people were caught on surveillance video smashing display cases and stealing jewelry from a Kay Jewelers in Wethersfield on Friday.
“We’ll often see crews of criminals wearing dark clothing, masks and gloves, use hammers and other tools to smash showcases and steal jewelry and then escape in cars with no license plates, obstructed license plates, or stolen license plates,” Shapiro said.
The FBI New Haven Violent Crimes Taskforce is working with local and state police to investigate these robberies and burglaries.
“We do see some commonalities between the cases, but there are several robbery crews operating a similar scheme,” he said.
Two people from Bridgeport have been indicted for robbing $184,000 worth of merchandise from a Kay outlet in Clinton in February.
One of them, 28-year-old Kelijah Richardson, is also accused of robbing $250,000 in jewelry from a store in Buckland Hills Mall in September.
Generally, thieves steal jewelry because it sells fast, according to Shapiro.
“Criminals have the perception that these are items of value, and that they will be able to convert jewelry into cash at a higher rate than they would other items,” he said.
The FBI is using surveillance video, jewelry serial numbers, and public information to track down suspects.
If you know anything, dial 1-800-CALL-FBI.
From breaking news and local politics to art exhibitions, live music, high school sports, small businesses, and cultural events, we celebrate the people and places that make Connecticut unique.