Thugs Arrested in New Jersey for $1.7 Million Jewelry Heist
Two individuals wielding sledgehammers were apprehended in New Jersey after assisting in stealing $1.7 million worth of jewelry and watches, including 70 Rolexes, in a daring heist in Westchester County, as confirmed by federal authorities.
Kevin Williams, 26, Byron Wilson, 24, and two others drove a stolen dark blue Jeep Grand Cherokee from New Jersey to the Westchester Square shopping plaza in Hartsdale around 11 a.m. on December 16, according to a statement from acting US Attorney Matthew Podolsky of the Southern District of New York.
The thieves, dressed in all black and brandishing hammers, violently raided a jewelry store at the plaza, smashing display cases as frightened customers and employees sought shelter, according to authorities.
The masked culprits stole valuable items such as diamonds, rings, necklaces, earrings, and luxury watches, including over $1 million worth of Rolexes alone, officials stated.
After seizing the loot, they quickly fled to their stolen Jeep and sped back to New Jersey with their bags of stolen goods in tow, Podolsky revealed.
Subsequent investigations traced their cell phones, revealing that while Wilson returned to their shared residence in Irvington, NJ, Williams made a trip to the Diamond District in Midtown Manhattan.
Several hours later, the duo posed with their accomplices for photos, showcasing stacks of cash, according to the statement.
Wilson was also found researching the phrase “hartsdale news” on his phone and reading articles about the robbery, including one titled “Tarrytown Jewelers in Hartsdale victim of robbery in broad daylight,” officials reported.
He also searched for “tudor geneve watch,” seemingly to learn more about some of the pricey items taken by the gang, federal sources revealed.
However, their luck ran out when they were arrested and charged with two federal counts related to conspiracy to commit robbery on Tuesday.
Each count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The pair were scheduled for arraignment on Tuesday in White Plains federal court.
“As alleged, Kevin Williams and Byron Wilson, along with their co-conspirators, carried out the violent robbery of a jewelry store in broad daylight,” Podolsky stated.
“Armed with sledgehammers, the defendants smashed their way in and then plundered the store of about $1.7 million in jewelry, diamonds, and luxury watches, all while innocent customers and employees hid for their safety.
“Today’s arrests should make clear that if you commit such brazen and dangerous crimes in this District, we will find you and hold you responsible.”
