BREAKING: A Delaware County man has been sentenced to jail for his key role in a brazen jewelry heist that netted over $384,000 in stolen merchandise from a Collegeville store. Lawrence Jainlett Dass, 28, was handed a 10-to-23-month sentence in Montgomery County Court following his guilty plea to multiple felony charges related to the burglary that occurred at 4:34 a.m. on February 9, 2024.
This urgent case highlights the impact of crime on local businesses, with Judge Steven T. O’Neill labeling the incident a “smash and grab” burglary. Dass, identified as the ringleader, coordinated the elaborate scheme along with three accomplices, who also face sentences for their roles. Judge O’Neill emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “This is violence to the community. There has to be a message that those who commit these crimes are dealt with seriously.”
The burglary at Sabre’s Fine Jewelry in the 400 block of East Main Street not only devastated the store owners but struck a blow to the small business community. A victim impact letter revealed the emotional toll on the store owner, who lamented, “In less than five minutes, my world was shattered.”
Authorities confirmed that the total loss from the crime amounted to $391,986, which includes both stolen goods and damage to the store. As part of his sentence, Dass will serve four years of probation following his jail term, keeping him under court supervision for nearly six years.
The investigation began promptly with Collegeville police responding to a commercial burglary alarm. Surveillance footage captured the shocking moment when three men smashed a window to enter the store, using hammers to break display cases before stuffing jewelry into trash bags. A police pursuit ensued shortly after, with officers witnessing suspects tossing stolen items from their getaway vehicle.
Prosecutors assert that Dass was the mastermind of the operation, having been recorded on surveillance trying to pawn some of the stolen jewelry. He pleaded guilty to additional charges of dealing in proceeds of unlawful activities, which further established his central role. Assistant District Attorney Christian Garfield Taffe argued for a harsher penalty, citing Dass’s leadership in orchestrating the crime.
Co-conspirators have also been sentenced, including Donte Stanley Solomon, 33, who received an 8-to-23-month sentence, and Lawrence L. Harper III, 36, sentenced to 2 to 5 years in state prison. The fourth accomplice, Dartanuall Lomar Cox, 34, is still awaiting sentencing.
Prosecutors revealed that the investigation was bolstered by cellphone data linking the suspects to the crime scene. In a poignant moment, Dass expressed remorse for his actions, stating, “My actions weigh heavily on me. I’m truly, truly sorry for what I did.” His defense attorney argued for a sentence consistent with his co-defendants, citing his sincere apology as a mitigating factor.
The case continues to resonate within the community, with law enforcement reminding residents of the importance of vigilance against crime. As the situation unfolds, the local business community remains on high alert, keen to prevent further incidents that could threaten their livelihoods.
As authorities finalize the legal proceedings against the remaining co-conspirator, the impact of this case serves as a stark reminder of the deep scars left by crime in small communities.
