FBI seeks tips from public in 2 related Mich. jewelry store robberies in Grand Rapids, Detroit areas

5/16/2014

DETROIT — The FBI believes there’s a firm connection between the attempted robbery of a jewelry store in the Grand Rapids area and a major theft at a store in suburban Detroit.

Detroit FBI chief Paul Abbate held a news conference today to ask the public for information that could lead to arrests in the April 22 incidents. He says he has a “high degree of confidence” that they’re related. There’s a $25,000 reward.

Four people attempted to rob a Paul Medawar jewelry store in Kent County before one of them was shot. Five hours later, more than 100 Rolex watches were stolen at a Tapper’s jewelry store in West Bloomfield, 140 miles away.

Investigators believe the three armed robbers at Tapper’s got help from getaway drivers and lookouts.