Sophisticated Jewel Heists on the Rise Across the U.S.
Sophisticated burglaries reminiscent of the film 'Ocean's Eleven' are becoming increasingly common in the United States, prompting official warnings to jewelers across the country.
The Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA) and Jewelers Mutual have raised the alarm this week, following reports of major losses suffered by some stores due to these break-ins, as per a recent report from JCK.
Scott Guginsky, vice president of the JSA, noted that these burglaries are happening everywhere, from New York to Texas, with some of the losses amounting to millions. "These are the largest dollar losses we’ve seen in some time," he said.
Howard Stone, vice president of global risk services and analytics for Jewelers Mutual, observed that these crimes, which he started noticing in June, show no signs of stopping.
The Modus Operandi of the Thieves
The burglaries typically take place over the weekends, with the thieves often disguising themselves as construction workers to blend in. They employ various tactics such as using cellphone and Wi-Fi blockers, cutting power cables, and waiting for backup alarms to drain. In some cases, they even set up hunting cameras as motion sensors.
The report from JCK reveals that these gangs meticulously plan their heists, gathering detailed intelligence beforehand. Guginsky further explained that the thieves usually spend a week in town for surveillance. They scout out the store, follow the jeweler home, and sometimes even send someone into the store during business hours equipped with a camera on their hat and shirt to get a sense of the layout.
Preventive Measures Suggested by JSA and Jewelers Mutual
In light of these burglaries, the JSA and Jewelers Mutual have suggested several preventive measures for jewelers. They recommend staying alert to suspicious individuals who may be scouting the store or following them, and reporting any concerns to both the JSA and local authorities, while keeping a log of incidents.
Regular testing of alarms and cameras, updating emergency contact lists, and ensuring contacts are available on weekends and holidays are also advised. They also encourage store owners to build relationships with local law enforcement and mall security to identify store vulnerabilities.
Bottom Line
These 'Ocean's Eleven' style burglaries are a serious concern for jewelers across the U.S. The sophistication and planning involved in these crimes underscore the need for heightened security measures and vigilance. What are your thoughts on this issue? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
Sophisticated Jewel Heists on the Rise Across the U.S.
Sophisticated burglaries reminiscent of the film 'Ocean's Eleven' are becoming increasingly common in the United States, prompting official warnings to jewelers across the country.
The Jewelers’ Security Alliance (JSA) and Jewelers Mutual have raised the alarm this week, following reports of major losses suffered by some stores due to these break-ins, as per a recent report from JCK.
Scott Guginsky, vice president of the JSA, noted that these burglaries are happening everywhere, from New York to Texas, with some of the losses amounting to millions. "These are the largest dollar losses we’ve seen in some time," he said.
Howard Stone, vice president of global risk services and analytics for Jewelers Mutual, observed that these crimes, which he started noticing in June, show no signs of stopping.
The Modus Operandi of the Thieves
The burglaries typically take place over the weekends, with the thieves often disguising themselves as construction workers to blend in. They employ various tactics such as using cellphone and Wi-Fi blockers, cutting power cables, and waiting for backup alarms to drain. In some cases, they even set up hunting cameras as motion sensors.
The report from JCK reveals that these gangs meticulously plan their heists, gathering detailed intelligence beforehand. Guginsky further explained that the thieves usually spend a week in town for surveillance. They scout out the store, follow the jeweler home, and sometimes even send someone into the store during business hours equipped with a camera on their hat and shirt to get a sense of the layout.
Preventive Measures Suggested by JSA and Jewelers Mutual
In light of these burglaries, the JSA and Jewelers Mutual have suggested several preventive measures for jewelers. They recommend staying alert to suspicious individuals who may be scouting the store or following them, and reporting any concerns to both the JSA and local authorities, while keeping a log of incidents.
Regular testing of alarms and cameras, updating emergency contact lists, and ensuring contacts are available on weekends and holidays are also advised. They also encourage store owners to build relationships with local law enforcement and mall security to identify store vulnerabilities.
Bottom Line
These 'Ocean's Eleven' style burglaries are a serious concern for jewelers across the U.S. The sophistication and planning involved in these crimes underscore the need for heightened security measures and vigilance. What are your thoughts on this issue? Feel free to share this article with your friends and discuss. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
