Headlines

Thief Steals $769,000 in Jewelry From Tiffany Store, Then Swallows It, Police Say

He allegedly showed up at the store and claimed to be representing an Orlando Magic player

Published

1 month ago

March 5, 2025

VMSD Staff

A thief took nearly $769,000 in jewelry from a Tiffany & Co. store in Orlando — and swallowed it when police caught up to him.

The suspect allegedly showed up at the store at the Mall at Millenia and claimed to be representing an Orlando Magic player, WFTV reported. He was taken to a private viewing area, where he snatched the jewelry.

Orlando police say the suspect fled to the parking lot and took off in a car. He was pulled over by the Florida Highway Patrol in Washington County. WESH-TV reported that Jaythan Lawrence Gilder, 32, was arrested and “faces robbery and grand theft charges” in connection with the Feb. 26 crime.

While being taken into custody Gilder allegedly swallowed the jewelry. Police said it showed up in scans after his arrest.

Gilder was being held at the Orange County Jail and also has 48 outstanding warrants in Colorado, according to WFTV.

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