In a dramatic turn of events, two suspects have been arrested in New Jersey after pulling off a bold $1.7 million jewelry heist in Westchester County, New York, authorities announced. Kevin Williams, 26, and Byron Wilson, 24, along with two accomplices, drove a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee to the Westchester Square shopping plaza in Hartsdale on December 16.
Armed with sledgehammers, the masked thieves stormed into a local jewelry store, smashing display cases and seizing valuable items, including 70 Rolex watches valued at over $1 million, alongside diamonds, rings, and luxury necklaces. After filling their bags with the stolen goods, the criminals fled the scene and returned to New Jersey.
Following an investigation, authorities traced their movements through cell phone data. While Wilson returned to his home in Irvington, NJ, Williams was spotted in New York’s Diamond District. Investigators also discovered photos of the criminals celebrating with large sums of cash shortly after the robbery. Wilson was found to have searched the internet for news articles about the heist, as well as for details on some of the high-value items they stole.
The duo faces serious charges, including two federal counts of conspiracy to commit robbery, with each count carrying a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Williams and Wilson were arraigned in White Plains federal court following their arrest.
Acting U.S. Attorney Matthew Podolsky emphasized the gravity of the crime, stating, “Armed with sledgehammers, the defendants violently robbed the store in broad daylight, stealing millions in jewelry and luxury watches while innocent people cowered in fear. Their arrest sends a strong message that such brazen crimes will not go unpunished.”
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