Mount Dora Police Department is actively seeking four suspects in connection with a high-stakes jewelry theft that occurred at a local shop earlier this month. Per ClickOrlando, the incident took place around 5 p.m. on July 14 at the Mount Dora Gold Exchange, with $27,000 worth of jewelry reported stolen.
The department revealed that the coordinated theft involved a man and three women who came into the store under the guise of potential customers. According to Mount Dora police, they were engaged in viewing items when the owner was distracted by showing the jewelry, leading one of the women to sneak into the safe box, concealing 11 rings under her dress, which had a total value of $27,000. Expressing the seriousness of the theft, police are appealing to the public to call 352-735-7130 with any information that could help in the ongoing investigation.
Detective Gary Hutcheson of the Mount Dora Police highlighted the suspects' approach, suggesting a level of premeditation and experience in similar crimes. "These people are professionals," Hutcheson stated in a quote reported by WFTV. He pointed out the timing of the theft, noting the store was nearing closing time, and the owner was likely the only one present, providing an opportune moment for the thieves to act.
