Jewelry thieves caught and arrested

PRESS RELEASE – On November 17, 2023, FCSO deputies were dispatched to a business alarm at Simon D. Jewelers in Suwanee. Deputies found a back door pried open and several display cases were smashed and jewelry was stolen.

The loss estimate was approximately $300,000 or more.

During the investigation, the suspects were identified as Higuera Reyes-Flores, Rafael Hernandez and Pedro Garcia. Several leads were obtained related to this burglary crew showing they had committed approximately 22 burglaries nationwide.

Our tenacious lead detective on this case was able to track them to Columbus, Ohio. It seemed they were up to their antics and casing a jewelry store in Zanesville, Ohio. We contacted Columbus Police Department, FBI Columbus, Zanesville Police Department, and Muskingum County Sheriff’s Office to fill them in on this burglary crew and they were happy to assist in apprehending them. Those agencies worked with the jewelry store the crew was casing.

Early yesterday morning, the crew decided to strike. They forced the rear door to the business open and began pillaging. Before leaving the store, much to their surprise, they were met with approximately 15 Law Enforcement Officers and 3 K9 teams. They were taken into custody without incident.

We thank Columbus Police Department, FBI Columbus, Zanesville Police Department, and Muskingum County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance. FCSO has obtained warrants for burglary: smash and grab and criminal damage to property 2nd degree.

“Yet again, felons stupidly thought Forsyth was a place to commit crimes. Hope they enjoyed their months of freedom. Because of great police work by FCSO detectives, they now get to enjoy trials and jails in multiple states. Don’t worry, we’ll leave the light on for you at Hotel Freeman” Sheriff Freeman.

Emma Dunn