In an unusual and saddening crime, an Illinois woman is accused of using two children to steal $100,000 in jewelry from a local retailer.

According to a press release issued by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, on Aug. 27, Geneshia Grey entered Hurley and Co. Jewelers in Granite City, Ill., with two children, whose ages have been reported as 6 and 8. Police allege that surveillance footage shows Grey talking with store employees, while directing the children to go behind the jewelry displays and steal $100,000 worth of merchandise. The children are suspected of placing the stolen jewelry in Grey’s purse and a second bag.

While investigating a disturbance at Grey’s residence, a family member gave police some recently discovered empty jewelry boxes that were later linked to the theft.

So far, $10,000 in jewelry has been recovered. The suspect, who has been charged with misdemeanor contributing to the delinquency of a child and felony burglary, remains at large.

“We have seen children used as a diversion for distraction by thieves,” says John Kennedy, president of the Jewelers’ Security Alliance. “To have the kids actually steal the jewelry is pretty unusual.”

Anyone having any information pertaining to this incident and/or Grey’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Madison County Sheriff’s Office at 618-296-3000.

Rob Bates

JCK News Director