DPS officers stop would-be jewelry robbers with sledgehammers

(KRON) — Several suspects armed with sledgehammers tried to break into a jewelry store Sunday but stopped short when they spotted police, said the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety.

The suspects never made it into Nitin Jewelers, according to DPS, and raced away from the scene in multiple stolen vehicles. No items were stolen and there was no one harmed during the incident at 1111 W. El Camino Real.

“Thanks to proactive policing and technology,” the would-be robbery was cut short by DPS officers who were already headed to the jewelers before their dispatch center even got the 911 call.

Sunnyvale police did not provide descriptions of the suspects or their vehicles.

DPS said they are seeing progress in their fight against jewelry store robberies that have plagued the Bay Area, including increased police patrols and more communication with businesses and neighborhoods at higher risk.

“We have made 24 arrests in connection with four robberies and three attempted robberies since May 2024,” said DPS. “We are regularly exchanging information with jewelry store owners and have established ways for them to quickly contact us with any concerns.”

Anyone who sees suspicious activity is urged to contact Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety.