Wilmington, Delaware – A Wilmington man was arrested after allegedly stealing a customer’s engagement ring from a local car wash.
According to Delaware State Police, 24-year-old Jose Gonzales-Morales of Wilmington was taken into custody following an investigation into a reported theft at Magic Car Wash, located at 3221 Naamans Road.
Troopers said the incident began Feb. 15 when a customer reported leaving an engagement ring inside a vehicle while it was being serviced. The customer later realized the ring was missing and notified authorities. Police said employees were interviewed, but the ring was not immediately recovered.
Investigators learned the victim had shared a photo of the missing ring online in case someone attempted to pawn it. On Feb. 23, Gonzales-Morales allegedly went to a Wilmington-area pawn shop and attempted to sell the ring. The pawn shop owner, having previously seen the online post, reportedly identified the ring and contacted the victim.
Police said Gonzales-Morales was arrested Feb. 28 without incident and charged in connection with the theft. He was arraigned in Justice of the Peace Court 11 and released on $2,500 unsecured bond.
The case may be of interest to service industry workers and customers who leave valuables inside vehicles during appointments.
Authorities remind residents to secure personal belongings and report suspected thefts promptly.
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