Suspected jewelry thief arrested in Union Square

The Associated Press
Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009 - 11:01 am

SAN FRANCISCO -- A suspected jewelry thief is facing charges after police say he tried to take advantage of the weekend shopping crowds to try to steal a diamond ring and a rare Rolex watch from two San Francisco jewelry stores.

Police say 41-year-old Shiji Chen was arrested Friday on suspicion of attempted grand theft, attempted burglary and conspiracy after employees became suspicious at one of the Union Square shops.

Investigators have not released the names of the stores.

Police say when Chen was taken into custody he was carrying currency from Asia, Europe and the Middle East. He also had several international identifications and documents indicating he had been traveling outside of the United States.

http://www.sacbee.com/state_wire/story/2356750.html