Woman Sought In 2 Distraction Robberies At Southland Jewelry Stores

VICTORVILLE (CBSLA.com) — Authorities Thursday sought the public's help in identifying a woman wanted in connection with a pair of Southland jewelry store thefts.

Ozel's Jewelry store, located at 12200 Amargosa Road in Victorville, was robbed of approximately $150,000 in loose diamonds on Dec. 6, the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department said.

"The suspect showed interest in purchasing high-quality diamonds and was able to steal a paper bindle, known as a parcel, with several diamonds in it by using 'sleight of hand,' and various distraction methods," Det. Don Campas said.

The female suspect, however, did pay $800 cash for one diamond, but refused to provide any personal information for the receipt.

The woman then left the business to meet her husband in a gold 2000 to 2002 Toyota Sienna minivan.

Four days later, the same suspect stole a 5.7-carat diamond ring from Giantto's Jewelry store in Tarzana using the same distraction methods, according to Los Angeles police.

She also bought a watch and ring, paying $800 in cash for both.

The suspect again refused to give personal information and stated she need to leave the store to meet her spouse.

The woman is described as an Asian woman, between 50 to 55 years old, 5 feet 8 inches tall, and 150 pounds with short black hair.

Anyone with information on either incident should contact Det. Campas of the Victorville Detectives Bureau at (760)241-2911 or Det. Luie Velasquez of the LAPD at (818)374-7762.