Thieves Steal Watches From Apple Store In Westlake

WESTLAKE, OH — Two men stole Apple watches and other merchandise from the Apple Store at Crocker Park over the past two weeks. One of the suspects has been charged for the theft, the other is unidentified, police said.

On Jan. 22, at 5 p.m., police were called to the Crocker Park Apple Store for a theft. Employees said a man walked into the store, appeared to shop for a few minutes and then pocketed numerous watches and air pods. He ran out of the store with $27,000 worth of merchandise.

The next day, a man matching the description of the suspect, was taken into custody in Pittsburgh after he was accused of stealing merchandise from another Apple Store. Police said the watches and air pods from Crocker Park were found in the man's possession.

Westlake police said the man has been charged with theft.

Then, on Jan. 25, at 2:30 p.m., police were called back to the Apple Store. Employees said a teenager, wearing a dark and dark pants, snatched several Apple watches and then ran out of the store. He was last seen going east on Crocker Road.

Investigators are still searching for the man, police said.

"It should be noted that these stolen Apple watches WILL NOT work on any network as intended due to internal safeguards in place. An unscrupulous buyer who picks one up from a car trunk or an internet resale site will not know this until they have paid for and received the stolen merchandise. This is why it is important to only buy merchandise from reputable sellers. If the price is too good to be true, it probably is," a Westlake police spokesperson said.