A man was recently charged by prosecutors for his role in a jewelry store robbery in downtown Seattle. The 31-year-old man allegedly served as a lookout for three other men who committed a robbery at the Ben Bridge jewelry shop on December 22.

The robbery resulted in $750,000 in damages and losses. The man smashed display cases with sledgehammers and stole 10 Rolex watches valued at more than $236,000.

According to store employees, the man entered the store that evening and looked around while avoiding eye contact with others. The man then covered his face and let in three men from the store’s door opening onto the street. The men then smashed the Rolex display cases, damaging 50 watches. Another man took 10 watches as staff looked on in terror.

Police were able to locate the man and they arrested him on December 31. He claimed he was given $100 from the men to walk through the store for a video. He denied knowing anything about a robbery, although witnesses and video footage caught the man loitering outside the store and looking through the windows before entering. The other two men are still at large.

Understanding Theft Charges

There are various types of theft. Petty theft refers to small amounts of stolen property, while grand theft refers to theft of property valued at higher amounts ($1,000 or more). In this case, given that hundreds of thousands of dollars in watches were stolen, the men involved in the jewelry store robbery will likely face first degree theft charges, if they are caught.

Under Washington State Legislature RCW 9A.56.030, first degree theft involves the theft of property or money valued at more than $5,000. It also refers to theft of vehicles, search and rescue dogs and metal property. It is the most serious type of theft and is classified as a Class B felony, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $20,000.

Get Help for Your Criminal Case

Theft is a serious crime, especially when a large amount of money or property is stolen. A person can face felony charges, which will negatively impact your life in many ways.

The criminal defense lawyers at the Nahajski Firm can defend you against charges of theft, no matter how severe. Let us help protect your legal rights. Contact our firm today at (206) 621-0500 to schedule your free consultation.