"Construction Workers" Arrested over $2m Diamond Heists
June 20, 23
(IDEX Online) - Five men have been arrested in New York after an armed gang posing as construction workers stole an estimated $2m of diamonds in two heists.
The suspects, most aged in their 60s, are reported to have links with the Lucchese and Gambino families that dominate organized crime in the city.
Among the items stolen was a 73-carat necklace, a six-carat ring, and a 17-carat pair of earrings.
Bayco Jewels, on Madison Avenue, which counts Beyonce and Rihanna among its celebrity customers, was targeted in January. Another Manhattan store, not identified by police, was raided in May.
CCTV footage shows the robbers wearing high-visibility construction gear before the Bayco raid.
The suspects have been charged with Hobbs Act robbery (actual or attempted robbery or extortion) conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, and brandishing a firearm during and in connection with a crime of violence.
Pic courtesy US Attorney's Office, Southern District of New York