Smash-and-grab robbery reported at St. Charles jewelry store

Authorities are searching for three men who used hammers to smash a display case and steal jewelry from a St. Charles business Saturday night, police said.

According to St. Charles police, officers were called about 8:45 p.m. to a reported robbery at Jared Jewelers, 3691 E. Main St.

Employees there told officers three suspects had entered the store and stolen an undetermined amount of jewelry after smashing a display case with hammers. A fourth suspect was waiting outside, police said.

After taking the jewelry, the robbers fled through the front door and drove away in a light blue older model Dodge Caravan which had been parked behind the store, police said.

The minivan, according to police, was reported stolen earlier Saturday in Batavia. Its driver's side window was broken out when it was stolen. and its license plate is Illinois 878 7642, police said.

Five employees and two customers were in the store at the time of the robbery, but none were harmed.

Police said investigators are working with employees to determine exactly what was taken and review any possible video of the robbery. Investigators also are working with police departments in other towns where similar robberies have occurred.

Anyone with information is asked to the call the St. Charles Police Department at (630) 377-4435. Information also can be supplied anonymously through the Drug and Crime Tip Line at 866-DRUG-COP (866-378-4267).