LPD: Two early morning jewelry store robberies may be connected

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Lincoln Police officers are investigating two jewelry store robberies that may be connected, due to their similarities.

The first report came in just before 2:30 a.m. at Akala Jewelry, 4230 South 33rd St.

The store owner reported that a suspect, or suspects, had smashed in the front window and entered the business. At this time, it is unclear if anything had been taken.

The damage to the window is estimated at $300, but the total store loss has yet to be released.

A little over an hour later, another burglary was reported at Lin Jewelers, 1265 S Cotner Blvd.

When officers arrived on scene, the store owner explained he had been sleeping in his office with a suspect smashed in the front windows.

The owner says the suspect then began smashing display cases and stealing merchandise. About $2,000 of jewelry was stolen and about $2,500 in damage was caused to the store.

The investigation into both burglaries is ongoing.