A Woodland Hills jewelry store owner faces a breaking point. Touraj Nezafati runs Nafiseh Jewelry. His business has endured multiple burglaries. This latest incident is the “last straw.” Nezafati is now considering leaving Los Angeles. This news highlights a troubling trend for local businesses.
A Brazen Rooftop Raid
The most recent break-in occurred early Saturday morning. Thieves entered the store through the roof. They cut through the ceiling to access the showroom. This sophisticated entry method is increasingly common. It allows criminals to bypass street-level security. The burglars reportedly stole about $100,000 worth of merchandise. The stolen items included jewelry, silver coins, and Persian silver plates. The family estimates roof repairs alone will cost $15,000. This adds to the immense financial and emotional toll. The store has operated on Ventura Boulevard for 30 years.
A History of Violations
This is not the first time Nafiseh Jewelry has been targeted. The store suffered a previous burglary just six months ago. That incident also led to an arrest. However, Nezafati believes different thieves carried out this latest attack. The trauma extends beyond the store. The family has also experienced two home invasions. During one frightening incident, Nezafati was held at gunpoint. This repeated victimization has left the family shaken. They feel increasingly unsafe in their own community.
Frustration Mounts Over City Safety
Nezafati expresses deep frustration with the current crime situation. He feels the Los Angeles Police Department needs more resources. Police response, while appreciated, felt routine to him. He believes more funding is essential to combat rising crime. “I just want the city to do something about it,” he stated. “Make the city a little safer.” He worries that other businesses face similar struggles. The owner’s parents, who are elderly, are considering retirement due to the stress. They may also move the business. This entire ordeal questions the viability of their long-standing storefront.
Wider Crime Trends in Los Angeles
Nafiseh Jewelry’s plight reflects a broader issue. Los Angeles is experiencing a surge in business burglaries. Jewelry stores, in particular, are frequent targets. Recent reports detail “smash-and-grab” incidents. Mob-style attacks involving large groups are also trending. Criminals employ increasingly brazen tactics. This includes tunneling into stores or using rooftop access. One report cited over 17 business burglaries linked to street takeovers in Los Angeles County within a single month. Another report noted a surge in violent jewelry shop robberies across California. These events create an atmosphere of fear for business owners. They question the safety and security of operating in the city.
The Emotional and Financial Cost
The emotional toll on business owners like Nezafati is significant. Constantly worrying about security and potential loss impacts daily life. Sleep is disrupted, and vigilance becomes paramount. The financial burden extends beyond stolen goods. It includes repair costs, increased insurance premiums, and potential business disruption. For a family-run business operating for three decades, these repeated attacks threaten its very existence. The fear of identity theft and the daunting task of cleanup are also major concerns for many targeted businesses.
Looking Ahead Amidst Uncertainty
The current news from Los Angeles paints a challenging picture for many small businesses. The repeated victimization of Nafiseh Jewelry is a stark reminder of these ongoing struggles. Touraj Nezafati’s desire to leave the city is a sentiment echoed by others. They hope for increased police presence and more effective crime prevention strategies. The city council has approved budget increases for hiring more LAPD officers. However, the effectiveness and speed of these measures remain a critical question. The situation underscores the urgent need for solutions. These solutions must address both immediate security needs and the root causes of escalating crime. For owners like Nezafati, the hope is for a safer environment. Until then, the prospect of rebuilding or relocating looms large.
