A quiet stretch of Sellwood turned into a crime scene for three small businesses after a series of nighttime break-ins from late January into early February left shop windows smashed and shelves picked over for specialty goods. A vintage-jewelry shop, a rock-and-mineral store and an art and vintage boutique all reported losses in the thousands of dollars, and owners say the block is rattled. Police say investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been announced.
On Jan. 28, Soulful PDX reported a break-in that owner Jin Hee Hann estimated cost the shop "in the thousands." Days later, Portland Rocks said thieves made off with several thousand dollars' worth of rock and mineral specimens while owner Jason Beraka was away at a gem show, according to KGW. Then on Feb. 8, surveillance footage reviewed by FOX 12 shows a suspect breaking a front window at Elemental Arts and removing vintage spoons and handmade jewelry. Officers responded, and no arrests had been made at the time of reporting.
Owners Ask Public to Watch for Standout Pieces
Beraka, who learned about the Portland Rocks break-in while at the Tucson International Gem and Mineral Show, asked neighbors and collectors to "keep an eye out" for distinctive pieces that might surface for sale. Portland Police told reporters it is too early to say whether the break-ins are connected as detectives review security footage, according to KGW.
Break-Ins Hit Amid Wider Retail Crime Concerns
The Sellwood cases land on top of a broader wave of business burglaries across Portland that prompted a Multnomah County District Attorney-backed burglary task force late last year to target retail theft rings, as reported by FOX 12. Shop owners around the city say repeated hits are forcing them to rethink store hours, add security and tweak daily operations just to stay afloat.
How to Help or Share Tips With Investigators
Investigators are asking anyone with information, especially clear photos or video of potential stolen goods, to contact the Portland Police Bureau. Non-emergency reports can be filed online or by calling 503-823-3333, according to the Portland Police Bureau. In the meantime, Sellwood business owners are boarding up broken glass, upgrading locks and cameras, and leaning on neighbors for leads and donations while they wait for answers.
