A jewelry heist that you’d only expect to see on television or in movies occurred last week. A Brink’s truck was robbed in the early morning hours of July 11th in Lancaster, CA. The truck was carrying millions in jewels, which belonged to vendors who travel between jewelry shows.
The jewels taken were unfortunately underinsured. Dana Callahan, a spokesperson for Brink’s security company stated that 18 victims are reporting over $100 million in loses. Brink’s says that the items were only insured for a $10 million value.
“According to the information the customers provided to us before they shipped their items, the total value of the missing items is less than $10 million,” Brink’s said in a statement. “We are working with law enforcement, and we will fully reimburse our customers for the value of their assets that were stolen, in accordance with the terms of our contract.”
The jewels were loaded late July 10th after an exhibit hosted by the International Gem and Jewelry Show in San Mateo. The gems and other merchandise were being moved to the Pasadena Convention Center. The robbery took place in Lancaster, in northern LA County. So far, there are no leads as to who perpetrated the robbery.
Brandy Swanson of the Gem and Jewelry Show says many vendors can’t afford to insure their stock properly. This accounts for the vast discrepancy between $100 million and $10 million item insurance. The Gem and Jewelry Show hosts about 45 shows nationwide each year.
