A 29-year-old man, identified as Da’Sean Harrison has been arrested in connection with the sophisticated, two-million-dollar smash-and-grab robbery that devastated Menashe & Sons Jewelers at 4532 California Ave SW in West Seattle on August 14. The suspect, identified by police as a previously convicted felon, is currently being held on $250,000 bail at the Maleng Regional Justice Center in Kent, WA. on this and another robbery case.

According to Seattle Police the initial apprehension occurred on October 16, when the Renton Police Department (RPD) arrested the individual for alleged involvement in multiple smash and grab robberies and for additional weapons charges. As a convicted felon, the suspect is prohibited from possessing firearms. During the suspect's apprehension, police successfully recovered ammunition, narcotics, and two firearms.

Following the Renton arrest, Seattle Police Department (SPD) detectives, including SPD’s lead robbery detective, referred robbery charges relating to the West Seattle heist to the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office (KCPO) on October 18. The August 14 robbery involved a 2 million dollar loss, including emerald necklaces, gold bracelets, Rolex watches, and platinum diamonds.

While the arrest marks a significant breakthrough, the major stolen items have not yet been recovered. Furthermore, authorities indicate that three other suspects related to the West Seattle incident remain outstanding, confirming that the case remains an open and active investigation assigned to the SPD’s Robbery Unit.

MORE ON THE ARREST HERE

Co-Owner Josh Menashe Reacts

Josh Menashe, co-owner of Menashe & Sons Jewelers, shared his appreciation for the law enforcement agencies and the community following the arrest, while also reflecting on the profound losses suffered in the robbery.

Menashe stressed the relentless work put in by law enforcement, stating, "I will say how the police and the detectives have kept on this case through a massive number of hours". He noted that the Southwest precinct, in particular, has been "really instrumental" in the investigation, alongside other precincts. This diligence meant a lot, as they kept the case a "priority". Menashe views the investigation as "a big ongoing investigation that's going to get even bigger", noting that there is "a lot of stuff that's being unraveled".

He also highlighted the crucial role the community played in aiding the investigation. "People in the community were a big part of the help," Menashe emphasized. He explained that someone from the community was "really instrumental" when they "really saw" a car parked near the bridge, which became a big part of the detectives' case.

The support from customers has also been overwhelming: "We've had people in today that came in not just to come in and say we are so excited that they caught one of the robbers". He added that this community support is why they love West Seattle and "are so strong in West Seattle".They've received cards, flowers, food and people coming in to buy something in support.

Dealing with the Losses

The emotional toll of losing specific pieces was clear. Among the stolen items was an emerald and diamond necklace that the store cherished; it was described as an "estate piece from about the 30s to 40s". Menashe also lamented the loss of Rolex watches, noting, "I cherished all those. That was a collection that I've been working on". Following the robbery, Menashe & Sons is "kind of out of the Rolex business for now". Regarding the chances of recovering the stolen merchandise, he indicated, "Yes and no".

In response to the robbery, Menashe & Sons has been implementing significant security upgrades. Menashe detailed that they are taking "three huge steps forward" in security. These steps include adding bulletproof glass to the original door and installing three big lock mechanisms/a multi-lock system. Additionally, they are working on building a double door, though this custom installation is slated to happen in mid-November by STS Construction. The store also maintains a security guard every day and is adding new reinforced back doors in addition to other measures put in place to both ensure safety for the employees and security for the store.