12/01/05
We need your help in identifying members of a sophisticated crime ring that we believe has stolen $5 million worth of jewelry in 50+ burglaries in at least 10 states since April 2003. We're offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for these thefts.
The ring is called the "Gate Cutters Jewelry Crew" because it’s known to break into jewelry stores by cutting through roll down security gates. Typically, its operatives work in teams of four to five, burglarize stores and mall shops during off hours, and are in and out of the stores in minutes.
Four suspected members of the crew are pictured in the rotating graphic above. We're also providing:
- A short video showing the criminals at work:
We can also tell you that the suspects typically wear hooded sweatshirts, are described as possibly African-American or Hispanic males, and often target men's gold jewelry, including chains, bracelets, rings, and watches.
If you have any information that could help us identify these individuals or any details on burglaries using similar methods, please contact us immediately:
- Contact local law enforcement or your nearest FBI field office.
- Call the FBI Tip Line at 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324).
What else are we doing to catch these thieves? Today, we're also announcing a new Gate Cutters Jewelry Task Force that includes representatives of federal, state, and local law enforcement and the jewelry and gem industry. Created during an October meeting in New York City, the task force is developing a unified strategy to take down the crime ring and is sharing information and resources.
Read our national press release for more specifics on the task force and how the Gate Cutters Jewelry Crew operates.
For more information on efforts to fight jewelry and gem theft, see our Jewelry and Gem Program webpage.
