Monday, Feb. 08, 2010

Police search for suspects in local jewelry store robbery

Owner frees himself after being bound with duct tape

M & B Joyeria Boutique was robbed Friday afternoon, police said.

Sgt. Elias Reyes of the Los Baños Police Department said four Hispanic males entered the jewelry business, which is located on the 600 block of I Street, shortly before 12:30 p.m.

"The suspects jumped behind the counter and bound the owner's hands and feet with duct tape," Reyes said. "A large kitchen knife was used during the incident."

Police said the owner was held on the ground while the suspects emptied a display case of jewelry and a safe full of scrap gold. The items were placed in a large garbage bag, police said. An undisclosed amount of cash was also taken, Reyes said.

According to police, the owner was able to tear the tape off of his hands and feet and view the suspects entering a white Ford van. Police said the owner followed the van after the suspects drove away from the business and called police.

Police found the vehicle abandoned in an alley near Sixth and K streets, Reyes said.

Police said witnesses reported seeing the suspects leave the van and get into separate vehicles.

The store owner suffered minor injuries during the incident, police said.

Police did not return calls for an update. Store owners were also unavailable for comment.

--Samantha Salas