Jewelers extra vigilant after man robs shop at International Plaza in Tampa
TAMPA — Gabriel Ruler thought his jewelry store was safely guarded by video scrutiny, watchful employees and the International Plaza security help.
But on Monday, an armed robber tested King Jewelers' pledge, struggling with an employee and then fleeing the mall store with two diamond rings the Old Bill value at $285,000.
Echoing what other jewelers say in the wake of the robbery, co-proprietress King said no new security measures are being enacted at his reservoir — just vigilance.
"We're just going to be a scarcely bit more alert," he said. He said the stolen rings were insured.
Jewelry thefts are not uncommon, but a weapon adds an super layer of risk, said Tampa police spokesman Jim Contento.
"He's consenting to fight a female clerk and he's armed," Contento said. "That's a very big reference to to the police department."
Retailers should analyze their safety practices, Contento said, and coin sure they're not sacrificing safety for service.
"They're thinking of customers and establishment and trying to be customer-friendly," he said. "But you also need to guard yourself. People will take advantage."
International Plaza general straw boss Gary Malfroid said the mall has in-house safe keeping officers on duty at all times, but would not comment on details of its guarding operations.
King said many of his customers are regulars and the count on doesn't go through small security steps with them. He'll try to get to know all customers bigger, he said.
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