ROGERS, AR (KNWA/CNN) - More than $30,000 worth of jewelry was swiped from Bella Jewelers, all taken by tiny hands.
"It's a real tragedy that they would use their kids to commit this crime. For us, that's the most heartbreaking part," said Stephanie Martinez, director of Bella Jewelers.
The theft was caught on surveillance video.
"The woman kind of kept a look out while her youngest son went around to steal the jewelry. As she realized that nobody was there, and she got more confident she started directing him to go back multiple times, and steal more and more jewelry," Martinez said.
The woman showed her child exact pieces she wanted him to grab.
"It was only a matter of minutes." Martinez said. "It's detrimental, especially this time of year. We're a local business, so this is something that really hurts us."
The jewelry employee said the woman took advantage of an opportunity.
"They were waiting for the right opportunity. They walked in. They scoped it out to see who's around to make sure. Then they go for it," she added.
Rogers Police said they haven't seen many cases where children are recruited for shoplifting.
"I can't think of any right off the top of my head," Keith Foster said.
On top of that, police said the parents will be charged with contributing to delinquency of a minor.
As for what will happen to these kids if they're caught, police said it's up to the court.
"The juvenile system tries to figure out what's going to be in the best interest of the kids, how can we help them make sure this type of stuff doesn't happen again, and whatever the adult system decides for the parents," Foster said.
Authorities want businesses to take extra precautions this time of year.
"Store owners need to be aware and make sure they secure their property," Foster said.
'We just hope other local business are also on guard and protect themselves from incidents like these," Martinez said.
Martinez said they won't let the theft bring down their holiday spirit.
"We have a lot of pride in our stores, and what we do. So yes, it is a minor setback, but it's a challenge we know we'll overcome," she said.
She said the theft is not a representation of Rogers.
"The outpouring of support that we've received is the real northwest Arkansas," Martinez said.
Bella Jewelers is offering a $1,000 reward for anyone who helps find the thieves.
Copyright 2017 KNWA via CNN. All rights reserved.
