Crime

FBI Offering $15K Reward for Info on Halloween Mask-Wearing Robbers

CrimeNov 04, 2024

FBI Offering $15K Reward for Info on Halloween Mask-Wearing Robbers

The suspects are said to have been involved in the armed robberies of four jewelry stores across three Midwest states.

FBI robbery surveillance photo
The FBI is looking for information about the four suspects who wore Halloween masks during armed robberies of jewelry stores. (Image courtesy of the FBI)
Chicago—The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Chicago field office is offering a $15,000 reward for information leading to the arrests and convictions of the four alleged perpetrators of gunpoint robberies at jewelry stores, committed while wearing Halloween masks.

The suspects are believed to have been involved in armed robberies at four jewelry stores across three states between July 13, 2023, and September 14, 2024, said the FBI in a press release.

All of the robberies were featured in the Jewelers’ Security Alliance’s Crime Alert emails.

The spree began in Bridgeview, Illinois, in July 2023, at Jawahir Jewelry. Three armed suspects stole gold jewelry from display cases as well as an employee’s handgun. They were seen driving a white Kia Sorento with stolen license plates, said the FBI.

A similar robbery took place on Jan. 9, 2024, at Jerusalem Jewelry, also in Bridgeview, Illinois. Three armed suspects stole gold jewelry from display cases. Again, the suspects were seen driving the same white Kia Sorento, but this time with different allegedly stolen license plates.

On Aug. 7, 2024, armed suspects robbed Mariam Jewelry in Dearborn, Michigan. The suspects were seen driving a black vehicle with no license plates.

The most recent robbery occurred on Sept. 14, 2024, at Dahab Jewelry in Winchester, Missouri. Four armed suspects allegedly stole several thousand dollars' worth of jewelry from display cases. They were seen driving a black vehicle with allegedly stolen Missouri license plates.

FBI robbery surveillance photos
These photos from the FBI show the suspects wearing Halloween masks during the robberies.


The suspects alternately carried an AR-style rifle, handgun, and hammer, and wore costume face masks, according to law enforcement.

“Do not let the costume masks distract from the seriousness of these robberies," said Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul.

"The individuals who committed these robberies terrorized and endangered the safety of customers and employees alike. I urge anyone who has information about these crimes to contact law enforcement without further delay.”

FBI investigators described the suspects as often wearing distinctive masks, said JSA, including one for a Slenderman-style costume and an “Uncle Bobby” mask.

 Related stories will be right here … 

On Oct. 30, the FBI released surveillance video footage showing the mask-wearing suspects at the robberies that took place at stores in Bridgeview, Illinois, and Dearborn, Michigan.

“The perpetrators of these crimes showed a blatant disregard for public safety and the rule of law during the commission of these brazen robberies,” said Douglas S. DePodesta, special agent in charge of the Chicago Division of the FBI.

“Their actions will haunt these victims for a lifetime, and we're asking for the public's help to bring them to justice before someone is killed. We encourage the public to take a good look at the images we've released today and contact us with tips before these violent individuals strike again.”

One suspect has been arrested in connection with this pattern, said JSA in a recent crime alert.

Those with information about the four suspects are asked to contact the FBI's  toll- free tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI, or submit a tip online

The Latest

Melanie Georgacopoulos Eclipse Collection Campaign Imagery
CollectionsMay 04, 2026
Melanie Georgacopoulos Turns Pearls Into Light for ‘Eclipse’ Collection

The “Eclipse” jewelry collection captures the fleeting moment where light and shadow align though onyx, diamonds, and freshwater pearls.

National Jeweler columnist Sherry Smith, partner at The Retail Smiths
ColumnistsMay 04, 2026
The Key Mindset for Better Trade Show Buying

Buying discipline at trade shows starts with clarity about your inventory levels, Smith writes.

Gild Zadok, Segev Zadok, and Jonathan Zadok at Austin park
IndependentsMay 04, 2026
Zadok Jewelers, Austin Parks Foundation Support Wildflower Preservation

A portion of every engagement ring sold in its Austin showroom will support the care and preservation of Austin’s wildflowers and green spaces.

Antique Jewelry & Watch Show
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las Vegas

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

Gemist new retailer offering
TechnologyMay 01, 2026
Gemist, Saban Onyx Partner on Retailer-Focused Customization Offering

Their partnership combines Gemist’s customization technology with Saban Onyx’s U.S.-based manufacturing capabilities.

Weekly QuizApr 30, 2026
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Take the Quiz
Hand putting gas pump in car
SurveysMay 01, 2026
Consumer Confidence Inches Up in April Despite Rising Gas Prices

Respondents were concerned about the Middle East conflict and how it will impact their finances.

Tiffany & Co. Blue Book 2026: Hidden Garden Butterfly Diamond Necklace
CollectionsMay 01, 2026
A ‘Hidden Garden’ Emerges in Tiffany & Co.’s 2026 Blue Book

Our Piece of the Week, the “Butterfly” necklace, showcases a 7.02-carat oval diamond set between diamond, platinum, and 18-karat gold wings.

lvajws image 1.jpg
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the Globe

Gain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.

The Retail Smiths partner and National Jeweler columnist Peter Smith
ColumnistsApr 30, 2026
Peter Smith: A Sleazy Salesman and the Case for Regret Avoidance

Smith uses a comment he overheard in the grocery store to remind retailers that their job is to inspire buying behavior, not just sell.

Claire’s new summer campaign
MajorsApr 30, 2026
Claire’s New Summer Campaign Is a Sensory Wonderland for Gen Alpha

“A Girl SMR at Claire’s” celebrates girlhood through the five senses with stacked jewelry, slime toys, scented accessories, and ASMR.

Cartier London Crash Watch
AuctionsApr 30, 2026
Vintage Cartier Watch Crashes Through Records, Selling for $2M

Believed to be one of three made in 1987, the Cartier London Crash was hot at the “Shapes of Cartier” sale at Sotheby’s Hong Kong.

OAR26_NJ_bulletin_1872x1052_01.jpg
Supplier BulletinApr 30, 2026
OROAREZZO 2026: The B2B Event for Italian Excellence in Goldsmith, Jewelry and Silver Manufacturing

Sponsored by OROAREZZO International Jewelry Exhibition

Tiffany & Co. Mother’s Day email opt out
TechnologyApr 29, 2026
The Thought Process Behind the Mother's Day Email Opt-Out

Some retailers are taking a nuanced approach to marketing what can be a difficult holiday for many.

Dick Abbott
IndependentsApr 29, 2026
Dick Abbott to Retire From The Edge

The Edge has announced its new CEO, as well as a new partnership with an investment firm focused on founder-led software businesses.

The Venetia Diamond Mine in South Africa
SourcingApr 29, 2026
De Beers’ Production Rises, Market Remains ‘Challenged’

De Beers’ diamond production was up 17 percent in Q1, boosted by increased output at its mines in South Africa and Canada.

John Wayne Signet Ring
AuctionsApr 29, 2026
This'll Be the Day You Own John Wayne's Ring

A signet ring belonging to the Western film star of Hollywood’s Golden Age will be up for auction at Elmwood’s next month.

Stock image of money
Policies & IssuesApr 28, 2026
Tariff Refunds: How to File, What to Expect

Importers can submit claims now to receive money back for the IEEPA tariffs they’ve paid, with refunds expected to take up to 90 days.

Gregory's Jewelers storefront
IndependentsApr 28, 2026
This North Carolina Jeweler Is Passing the Torch

The owners of Gregory Jewelers in Morganton, North Carolina, are heading into retirement.

Doug Hucker
SourcingApr 28, 2026
Doug Hucker Retires From ICA

The colored gemstone industry leader is heading into retirement after four years as the association’s CEO.

Natural Diamond Council Chief Marketing Officer Susie Dewey
SourcingApr 28, 2026
NDC Hires Tapestry Exec to Head Global Marketing

Susie Dewey joins the Natural Diamond Council as its new chief marketing officer.

The Ocean Dream diamond
AuctionsApr 27, 2026
12 Years Later, the ‘Ocean Dream’ Diamond Resurfaces at Christie’s

The largest known fancy vivid blue-green diamond could fetch more than $12 million at its second auction appearance.

Smart Age Solutions CEO and National Jeweler columnist Emmanuel Raheb
ColumnistsApr 27, 2026
Stop Treating Mother’s Day Like an Afterthought

Emmanuel Raheb says jewelers need to start marketing early and make it easy for customers to pick a gift for mom.

Longnecker Jewelry storefront
IndependentsApr 27, 2026
Longnecker Jewelry Celebrates 30 Years

In honor of the milestone, the Nebraska jeweler has debuted Leslie & Co., its new in-house jewelry brand.

Jeff Corey
MajorsApr 27, 2026
JBT Re-Elects Jeff Corey as Board Chair

The trade organization, which held its annual elections earlier this year, also added five new board members.

Fourteen August Irene mom ring
SurveysApr 24, 2026
Mother’s Day 2026 Jewelry Spending to Top $7B, NRF Says

NRF’s annual survey found that 45 percent of consumers plan to purchase jewelry for a loved one this Mother’s Day.

TwentyFour Vault Locket
TechnologyApr 24, 2026
TwentyFour’s Digital-Age Locket Is a Virtual Vault

The “Vault” charm, our Piece of the Week, expands on the memories that can be stored in a locket by connecting to your phone.

Hamptons Jewelry Show exhibitors Maison Mèrenor, Jochen Leën, Studio Javo
Events & AwardsApr 24, 2026
Hamptons Jewelry Show to Return in July

The open-to-the-public luxury jewelry and timepiece show, in its second year, is slated for July 23-26.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy