NH Police: Man Used Dumbbell, Sledgehammer To Rob Portsmouth Jewelry Store

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (CBS) - Police are looking for the man who broke into a jewelry shop with a dumbbell.

Surveillance video obtained by WBZ-TV shows the man throwing the weight through the glass door. The break-in happened at Chrisrial & Company Fine Jewelers in downtown Portsmouth.

Detectives say the suspect was also armed with what appears to be a sledgehammer, and used it to break the glass of five display cases inside the store.

The store's co- owner, Airial Sillanpaa, tells WBZ-TV the suspect stole bracelets, pendants, earrings and diamonds. She is still trying to determine how many pieces were stolen, but estimates at least $10,000 in gems are missing.

The suspect left the dumbbell behind, and police are trying to determine if they can figure out where it may have come from.

"We have followed up with local gyms and local sporting good stores to find out if they've had any thefts or are missing a 30 pound dumbbell," said Lt. Michael Maloney.

Investigators say the same suspect may be responsible for three jewelry heists in Massachusetts.

"At this point we're working with authorities in Massachusetts that are investigating a series of similar burglaries, similar motive," said Maloney.

The suspect spent less than two minutes inside the store before escaping.

"We appreciate all of the concern and support we have received from our customers, community members, and the Portsmouth Police Dept. after our recent burglary," said Sillanpaa in an email to WBZ-TV.

The burglary happened in the early morning hours of February 7.

The man was wearing blue jeans, a dark belt, black boots, gloves, and a black jacket or sweatshirt with a hood.

If you have any information that may lead to the man's identity, you are asked to call Detective Tim Cashman at 603-610-7587.