Redmond Police urge vigilance after 14 jewelry thefts, including recent robbery

REDMOND, Wash. — Redmond Police are urging residents to stay alert following a series of jewelry thefts, including a robbery and two attempted robberies that occurred on September 19.

In total, 14 thefts have been reported, with many of the victims being older members of the local Asian Indian community.

Authorities believe the suspects are part of an organized crime group.

Many of the incidents have involved female suspects wearing long dresses who use distraction techniques to steal valuable jewelry from their victims.

Fortunately, none of the victims in this string of thefts have suffered serious injuries.

“She was standing outside the house, literally eight feet away from the door,” said Redmond resident Haritha Sista, whose mother-in-law was a victim.

A group of suspects greeted her in her native language and called her over to a van. The group of suspects covered her hands and neck in cloth, slipping off her jewelry and slipping on a fake chain.

“All this happened within 10 minutes,” Sista said. “She was panicked. She didn’t know how to react.”

She said these incidents make people feel this area is no longer safe.

Redmond police urge the public to avoid approaching strangers and to stay at least an arms-length away from any unfamiliar people or vehicles.

In some cases, suspects have asked victims to exchange jewelry. In others, they have asked for directions or to engage in prayer. Often, suspects will approach victims in their native language.

“These suspects create a false sense of, I’ll call it comfort with the victims, to get them to engage,” said Redmond Police Chief Darrell Lowe.

Community members are encouraged to avoid accepting gifts or offers from strangers and to keep their jewelry and valuables secure when walking alone.

Police also recommend traveling in groups whenever possible.

Anyone who encounters individuals offering to sell or trade jewelry is urged to contact law enforcement immediately.

For incidents within Redmond, residents should call the Redmond Police Department at 425-556-2500.

The investigation is ongoing as police work to identify and apprehend those responsible for the thefts.

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