Seven Arrested in Multi-State Jewelry-Theft Ring

Federal prosecutors say seven people have been charged in connection with operating a jewelry-theft ring based in Richmond, Va.

Prosecutors say the suspects stole more than $4.6 million in jewelry from traveling sales representatives in Virginia and at least six other states, including New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Maryland, Tennessee and California.

Those charged had initial court appearances in Newport News, Va., Tuesday.

Court documents say the group has ties to South American theft groups, which federal authorities say are transnational criminal groups that work in teams to steal jewelry, gems and precious metals from those who carry hundreds of thousands of dollars in merchandise at one time.

Prosecutors say that after a successful robbery, members of the ring would travel to New York to sell the merchandise.

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