ORANGE, CA – In a daring mid-afternoon heist, two thieves made off with over $100,000 worth of jewelry from a store in Old Towne Orange, leaving the owner reeling from the loss. The incident took place on Glitchsell Street at Sea Diamond Estate Jewelry, where the suspects posed as ordinary customers before executing their plan.
Store owner Sammy Solomon recounted the unsettling events of that Tuesday. Initially, the two individuals seemed genuinely interested in purchasing some of the shop’s high-end pieces. Solomon, eager to assist, fetched several boxes containing his most valuable items. It was during this moment of distraction that the cunning duo struck.
As Solomon attended to a phone call, the female suspect engaged him in conversation, diverting his attention. Meanwhile, her accomplice discreetly concealed a box of jewelry beneath his clothing. “I was focused on the woman, unaware of what was happening right in front of me,” Solomon said, reflecting on how the man managed to slip the items away undetected.
The theft occurred on September 17, and surveillance footage has since provided clear images of the suspects. The loss has left Solomon devastated, as the stolen items were among the most prized in his collection. “It’s not just about the monetary value,” he lamented, “it’s about the years of hard work and trust that’s been shattered.”
This brazen theft underscores the vulnerability of small business owners, who often operate under the assumption of safety within their own communities. The incident has sparked conversations among local shopkeepers about the need for heightened security measures.
Authorities are actively seeking information that could lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspects. The Orange Police Department urges anyone with knowledge of the incident or recognition of the individuals from the surveillance images to come forward.
For Solomon, the path to recovery will be long and arduous. Despite the setback, he remains determined to rebuild and continue serving his loyal customers. The community has rallied around him, offering support and solidarity during this challenging time.
As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present risks faced by retail businesses. The hope is that with increased vigilance and cooperation from the public, justice will prevail.