Lakewood, Colorado — Police in Lakewood are asking for the public’s help as they search for two suspects accused of stealing a $10,000 gold chain from a jewelry store inside Colorado Mills Mall, an incident investigators describe as a targeted, high-value retail theft.
Theft Reported Inside Colorado Mills Mall
According to authorities, the theft occurred at the Zales jewelry store, located inside the busy Lakewood shopping complex. Investigators say the suspects entered the store during regular business hours and allegedly removed a gold chain valued at approximately $10,000 before leaving the area.
Police confirmed that no injuries were reported during the incident, and employees were not physically harmed. However, the value of the stolen item has elevated the case to a priority investigation.
Surveillance Images Show Two Young Male Suspects
Lakewood Police released surveillance images showing two young males inside the jewelry store shortly before the theft occurred. Officials believe the images could be key in identifying the suspects and tracking their movements before and after the incident.
At this time, police have not released detailed descriptions of the individuals, including their names or exact ages. Investigators say the case is still in its early stages, and additional information may be shared as the investigation progresses.
Police Ask Public for Tips
Detectives with the Lakewood Police Theft Team are urging anyone who recognizes the suspects or has information related to the theft to come forward.
Authorities say even small details—such as seeing suspicious behavior inside the mall, noticing individuals matching the images, or observing a gold chain being sold shortly after the incident—could help move the case forward.
Anyone with information is asked to contact:
Lakewood Police Theft Team
Phone: 303-987-7157
Reference case number: LK25-34407
Police emphasized that tips can be critical in identifying suspects, especially in retail theft cases involving high-value merchandise.
Ongoing Investigation and Evidence Review
The investigation remains active as officers continue reviewing security footage, interviewing potential witnesses, and analyzing any additional evidence collected from the scene. Detectives are also working with mall security and nearby businesses to determine whether the suspects were captured on other surveillance systems within the shopping center.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the theft involved distraction techniques or coordinated movements, but such methods are commonly used in organized retail theft cases. Investigators are evaluating whether this incident may be connected to similar thefts in the region.
Retail Theft a Growing Concern for Jewelry Stores
Jewelry stores remain frequent targets for theft due to the high resale value of gold and precious metals. Law enforcement agencies across Colorado have reported an increase in organized retail theft, particularly involving items that can be quickly concealed and resold.
Police say malls and retail centers rely heavily on public awareness and cooperation to help identify suspects who may move quickly between locations. Surveillance images often play a crucial role, but tips from shoppers and employees can be just as important.
What Shoppers Should Watch For
Authorities encourage mall visitors and retail employees to stay alert and report suspicious behavior, including individuals loitering near display cases, working in pairs to distract staff, or attempting to conceal merchandise.
Police stress that residents should never attempt to confront suspected thieves directly. Instead, they should contact law enforcement and provide as much detail as possible.
Case Still Under Review
As of now, no arrests have been made, and the suspects remain at large. Lakewood Police say updates will be released if new information becomes available or if charges are filed.
Anyone who may have been at Colorado Mills Mall around the time of the incident and recalls seeing unusual activity inside or near the Zales store is encouraged to contact investigators.
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