WSYR-TV ABC 9
February 18, 2009

DeWitt, New York (WSYR-TV) – Gold is now at almost $980 per ounce, and police say that’s why thieves are targeting the precious metal, especially over the past six months.

DeWitt police are still investigating two burglaries that happened in November and December of 2008, where thieves ran off with about $20,000 worth of gold from each home.

“It’s easier for them to conceal, it’s quick money,” said Investigator Thomas Regan.

Back in October, officers were called to a home on Hampshire Drive, where a thief ran off with almost $3,000 in jewelry. They were able to track him down, partly through the jewelry store he sold his gold to, Jewelry on James.

The store owner keeps records of all transactions made, something he’s had to do more often. Owner Tom Marini says he’s buying gold now more than ever before; that part of his business is up easily 200 percent in the last year, compared to past years.

Marini says whenever a transaction is made, a copy of the driver’s license is taken, along with information on what is sold to them.

Officers looked through those records and were able to make an arrest – but they are still investigating the larger burglaries.

Their advice to prevent your gold from being stolen? Lock it up.

If you plan on living in your home for a while, get a wall safe, and place it in an area that’s not easily found. Take pictures of your items, so if they ever get stolen, police have pictures to help them track down the goods.

If you have any information on the two burglaries from November and December of 2008, give police a call at 449-3640.