Thieves Pocket $100,000 in Gold Coins

Frank Cox Production’s Coin Show & Sale drew more than collectors over the weekend. Police say it also attracted thieves who helped themselves to an estimated $100,000 in collectibles.

According to the Sarasota Police Department, the crime took place between 4 and 5:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Surveillance from the show, which was staged at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail, depicts four people police believe are suspects entering the venue. One of the people is seen on the video walking through the show after some of the vendors have left. The person walked up to a table, placed a bag down and took several gold coins.

Once the coins were snatched, police say, the four people left.

A few minutes later, two of the four returned to the same table, took more items and left again.

The coins taken are valued between $50,000 and $100,000 police say.

Anyone with information about the crime is asked to call Det. Kenton Montegna at 941-954-7092. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 941-366-TIPS (8477) or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.

Photo courtesy of the Sarasota Police Department