A Toronto-area jewelry store owner took bold action to stop three masked criminals from executing a smash-and-grab robbery at his store. Jerry Sorani, owner of Jewellery Forever in Markham, used a broomstick to fend off the thieves during the October 3 incident.
Surveillance footage from the store shows three hooded and masked suspects entering the store, with one beginning to smash a glass display case with a hammer. Without hesitation, Sorani grabbed a broomstick and struck one of the robbers multiple times, forcing the trio to flee empty-handed.
“I just got up and said, ‘No, it’s not going to happen here,'” Sorani told CBC News. Sorani, who moved to Canada from Iraq 30 years ago seeking safety and opportunity, said his instinct to protect his business took over in the moment.
'Not going to happen': Markham jewelry store owner fights off robbers with broomstickhttps://t.co/nsPAEv6mvV pic.twitter.com/G69bENOJVt
— CTV Toronto (@CTVToronto) January 10, 2025
Despite law enforcement advising against confronting criminals, Sorani expressed no regrets about defending his store. “If I didn’t stop them, they would think they could do this anywhere,” he explained. Sorani admitted that while he was unafraid of the robbers, he did worry about facing legal consequences for defending himself.
A Toronto jewelry store owner fought back against masked thieves with nothing but a broom! His wild confrontation has gone viral, highlighting the unexpected challenges retailers face. Curious about this brave showdown? Check the full story here: … https://t.co/KtCdFXBneY
— Spanglish Canada (@wearspanglish) January 9, 2025
York Regional Police are still investigating the robbery attempt, though no suspects have been arrested. Police continue to caution business owners to prioritize their safety, warning that engaging with criminals could escalate violence. “You never know what someone is capable of,” Const. James Dickson said.
This robbery attempt is part of a growing crime wave in the Greater Toronto Area. Jewelry store robberies in York Region have doubled from seven incidents in 2023 to 14 in 2024. The alarming increase in crime has left business owners on edge.
In response to the attempted robbery, Sorani has increased security at his store, keeping the doors locked even during business hours. “I’ve never had to lock my doors in 25 years,” Sorani said. “It’s a sad reflection of how things are changing.”
While Sorani’s brave act has gone viral and received praise online, it also underscores the serious concerns about rising crime and the safety of small business owners.
