Woman arrested over cache of jewels allegedly stolen from Victor Harbor aged-care home
A woman’s been arrested after jewellery was allegedly found in her home – police believe it was stolen from a Victor Harbor aged-care home, and are trying to find the owners.
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A woman has been arrested after police allegedly uncovered a cache of unique jewellery items believed to have been stolen from residents of an aged-care home.
Detectives attended a Hackham West home as they investigated reports of jewellery stolen from an aged-care home in Victor Harbor on Thursday.
They allegedly found 50 jewellery items, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, and two lockets, containing black and white photographs of unidentified people.
A woman, 46, from Hackham West was reported for theft, after one of the rings was identified as being stolen from the aged-care home.
Police suspect the other jewellery was also stolen, and have appealed to the public to help identify the rightful owners. Investigations are continuing.
The woman was summonsed to appear in court at a later date.
Aged Rights Advocacy Service chief executive, Carolanne Barkla, said theft is horrendous for anyone, but particularly tough for elderly people.
“Generally, older people – when they move into aged care – only have the ability to take treasured items with them,” Ms Barkla said.
“These items usually are selected for their significant meaning … so a stolen locket with a photo, imagine the impact on the person, particularly with dementia.”
Detectives are working with elderly residents in the Victor Harbor community to identify the items, but ask anyone who recognises the jewellery to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The nursing home has been contacted for comment.