Simi Valley Rooftop Heist Leaves Jewelry and Candy Shops Devastated with $2 Million Loss

Local Family Businesses Shaken as Thieves Cut Through Roof and Vault in Meticulously Planned Overnight Robbery

A Shocking Discovery on a Quiet Morning

In what can only be described as a cinematic-style heist, two beloved small businesses in Simi Valley—5 Star Jewelry and Dr. Conkey’s Candy & Coffee—were devastated by a daring overnight burglary that resulted in a staggering $2 million loss. The theft, which unfolded quietly over the weekend on Cochran Street, left both business owners and the local community stunned by the precision and scale of the crime.

The burglars bypassed traditional entry points by cutting into the roof directly above the candy shop's restroom. From there, they breached an internal wall, granting them access to the adjoining jewelry store. Inside, they spent several calculated hours penetrating the jewelry store’s fortified vault—cutting through nearly eight inches of reinforced material—leaving behind a hollow shell and a trail of shock and disbelief.

Inside the Vault a Heartbreaking Scene

When Jonathan Youssef, the owner of 5 Star Jewelry, opened the vault the following morning, what appeared to be an untouched safe from the outside revealed a terrifying truth. The back wall of the vault had been carved open, and its entire contents were gone. Not only were valuable pieces of gold and diamonds stolen, but many of the items were irreplaceable family heirlooms and custom jewelry entrusted to the shop by loyal customers over its 25-year history.

"This wasn’t just inventory," Youssef explained. “These were people’s memories. Their family treasures. We were safeguarding their legacy—and now, it’s just gone.”

A Blow to More Than Just Business

Next door at Dr. Conkey’s Candy & Coffee, the owners faced their own invasion. The candy shop, a community staple for over four decades, was the unexpected entry point for the burglars. The damage to the store was far more than physical—it was emotional and deeply personal.

“We’ve been part of this community for 43 years,” said co-owner Cathy Mackel. “This was more than a break-in—it was a violation. All the businesses around here are run by families, by hardworking people. This is their life’s work. It’s everything they have.”

A Meticulously Orchestrated Crime

The crime wasn’t just brazen—it was meticulous. The thieves managed to disable or bypass the building’s alarm systems and security cameras, using spray paint to obscure lenses and avoiding motion sensors altogether. Surveillance systems inside the stores caught only limited footage, suggesting a well-planned operation by individuals who had likely scouted the premises beforehand.

Investigators believe the break-in occurred over several hours under the cover of night. The use of specialized tools, knowledge of the building layout, and careful avoidance of triggering alarms have led authorities to consider this the work of experienced professionals.

Community Steps In with Support and Solidarity

Despite the immense financial and emotional toll, the tragedy has sparked an outpouring of support from the Simi Valley community. Customers, neighbors, and fellow business owners have rallied behind the affected stores, offering both emotional and tangible support.

“Right when I think we’ve reached the lowest point,” Youssef shared, “someone walks through our door and offers words of kindness—or even gold to help us recover. That’s when I remember the strength of our community. We may have been targeted, but we’re not alone.”

The businesses are now working with local banks and financial institutions to explore recovery options, including small business loans to help restock and rebuild. Insurance claims are underway, though the full scope of compensation is yet to be determined.

A Deeply Rooted Sense of Resilience

While no arrests have yet been made and authorities remain tight-lipped about potential suspects, both affected businesses are focusing on recovery. The owners are reviewing security procedures, upgrading alarm systems, and taking new safety measures to protect against future threats.

For the Youssef family, the road ahead is steep. Their sense of safety has been shaken, but their resolve remains unbroken. The same can be said for the team at Dr. Conkey’s, who continue serving customers with the same warmth and energy they’ve brought to the neighborhood for generations.

Moving Forward Together

In moments like these, the true spirit of a town shines through. Simi Valley may have been the scene of an audacious robbery, but its people have shown resilience that can’t be stolen. From small gestures of solidarity to ongoing investigations and recovery efforts, the story is far from over.

This isn’t just about a robbery—it’s about a community determined to protect what it values most: trust, relationships, and the unwavering will to rebuild.