Woman accused of stealing $1 million worth of jewelry

Colorado Springs police have recovered stolen jewelry reportedly valued at about $1 million.

“A theft of this amount is not common in Colorado Springs,” said Sgt. Joel Kern, Colorado Springs Police.

Officers were called to the site of a theft at Jared – Galleria of Jewelry, on the 1700 block of East Woodmen Road.

Police were able to identify the suspect as 66-year-old Patricia Eck. Police say Eck was a frequent customer at Jared.

Police estimate Eck took $1 million worth of jewelry, but can’t comment on what kind.

“When you say a million dollars worth of jewelry, some people might think it can fill a suitcase. However it could also be valuable jewelry that’s relatively small and fit in a small bag,” said Kern.

After investigating, police issued a search warrant for Eck’s home and found the stolen jewelry there.

Neighbors KRDO spoke with say at one point Eck was part of the neighborhood watch program and the news came as a shock.

“Initially we heard the news and were like ‘oh somebody got away with jewelry, got caught,’ but never in a million years would you think it’s your neighbor,” said Erika Coate.

Background searches reveal Eck has faced several felony charges related to theft dating back to 1987 that involve property ranging from $500 to $20,000 in value.

Eck was booked into the El Paso County Criminal Justice Center Friday and is expected to have her video advisement on Monday.