Police say coordinated distraction tactics led to more than $40,000 in stolen jewelry across three incidents.
New York, NY – Police are searching for three individuals accused of carrying out a series of jewelry thefts in Lower Manhattan and Williamsburg on March 9, targeting small businesses in a coordinated pattern that unfolded over several hours. Investigators say the group used distraction techniques to divert employees while high-value items were taken from display cases.
The incidents, reported in both the 5th and 94th Precincts, resulted in a combined loss of more than $41,000 in jewelry. The thefts occurred at three separate commercial locations, each involving a similar method of operation.
Key Points
- Three suspects linked to grand larceny pattern across Manhattan and Brooklyn
- Thefts occurred within hours on March 9 using distraction tactics
- Total value of stolen jewelry exceeds $40,000
According to the NYPD Crimestoppers unit, “The New York City Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the three individuals depicted in the attached media, who are wanted in connection with a grand larceny pattern that occurred within the confines of the 5 and 94 Precincts.”
Pattern spans three locations in one day
The first incident took place at approximately 2:00 p.m. inside a commercial establishment at 253 Centre Street in Manhattan. Police said two individuals engaged a female employee in conversation while a third removed jewelry from an unlocked display case. The stolen items were valued at approximately $31,000.
Later that evening, at around 6:10 p.m., the same group allegedly entered a business at 108 North 7th Street in Brooklyn. Using the same distraction method, the suspects removed jewelry from a countertop display case valued at about $7,000.
Less than an hour later, at approximately 6:55 p.m., the trio struck again at 138 North 6th Street. Authorities said the suspects once more diverted an employee before removing jewelry worth approximately $3,500 from an unlocked display.
Police urge public assistance
The NYPD is asking anyone with information about the suspects or the incidents to come forward. Tips can be submitted by contacting NYPD Crimestoppers via direct message on social media or by calling 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).
Investigators have not released descriptions of the suspects but are urging business owners to remain vigilant about display security and employee awareness during customer interactions.
