Thomas Birdsall, the former owner of Birdsall Jewelry and Gifts in Metairie, has been arrested and accused of stealing from his customers.
Sheriff Craig Webre reported that Birdsall, 64, was apprehended in connection with the theft of a watch valued at $50,000, which was brought in for repair in the summer of 2021. Birdsall allegedly informed the customer that he would either repair the watch himself or send it off for repairs.
Following Hurricane Ida, Birdsall removed all items from his store and claimed he couldn’t remember if he had sent the watch off for repairs. He is accused of subsequently cutting off all contact with the victim.
Birdsall was arrested in Jefferson Parish and charged with one count of felony theft. He was released with an ankle monitor pending further investigation.
Sheriff Webre suspects there may be additional victims. Anyone who had brought high-priced jewelry to Birdsall Jewelry and Gifts before Hurricane Ida and has not received it back is urged to contact the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office.
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