Crime & Safety
Did Red Hat Society Member Lift Jewelry From Host's House?
Police were called to investigate the theft of a $6,000 crucifix and other items. The owner said the theft may have happened after a Red Hat Society gathering at her home before the holidays.
Red Hat Society members believe in women over the age of 50 celebrating life — complete with purple outfits and red hats.
But when Linda Severs of the 500 block of 57th Court in West Des Moines threw a party for 25 Red Hat ladies she later notices valuables worth more than $6,000 were missing from her house.
Severs at the urging of her insurance company. But she told officers that noticed the items were missing around Jan. 15.
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On Dec. 3 Severs hosted a party for about 25 Red Hat Society women.
In January as she was packing away Christmas decorations, Severs noticed these belongings were gone: a 24-karat gold crucifix on an 18-inch chain valued at $6,000; a Geppedo fairy doll with Jessica written on the back of its neck valued at $400; and a pair of black size 4 ladies slacks valued at $65. The doll was sitting in her closet, as were the slacks.
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According to the police report, Severs asked the leader of the Red Hat group to make an announcement about the items, which was done on April 14. Members were asked to return the items, but none have resurfaced.
When Severs filed an insurance claim she was told to file a police report.
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