Aaron Smalls, 39, from Staten Island, faced charges of grand larceny and related offenses for allegedly stealing high-value jewelry from multiple Queens stores. Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz emphasized the seriousness of the accusations, stating that Smalls targeted local jewelry shops over a span of months, contributing to the borough’s retail theft problem.
Smalls allegedly employed a simple yet effective method, requesting to see expensive pieces from store clerks and then fleeing with the merchandise. The stolen items included gold chains and bracelets, with the total value exceeding $170,000. Additionally, DNA evidence linked him to a previous theft in 2021, where gold chains worth $120,000 were stolen.
Apart from the jewelry thefts, Smalls also faced charges for a separate incident in 2021 involving robbery and assault. If convicted, he could face up to 15 years in prison. Following his arraignment, Queens Criminal Court Judge Diego Friere scheduled his next court appearance for May 13.
Smalls’ apprehension on May 8 at a Queens motel was the result of diligent work by the Queens Warrant Squad, led by Detective William Dugan. The investigation also involved cooperation from various precincts and units within the Queens law enforcement community.
Senior Assistant District Attorney Catherine Jahn is prosecuting the case, under the supervision of experienced attorneys overseeing the District Attorney’s Major Economic Crimes Bureau. District Attorney Katz reiterated her office’s commitment to ensuring the safety of businesses and communities, emphasizing the importance of addressing serial thefts to maintain a thriving local economy.