Redruth Man Charged After Foiled Clown Mask Burglary at Camborne Jewellers

The owners of Crystal Image, a family-run jewellery store in Trelowarren Street, Camborne, have expressed their deep gratitude to local shoppers and Devon and Cornwall Police after a dramatic attempted heist was foiled by members of the public.

The Attempted Burglary

Shortly before midday on Saturday, November 29, 2025, a suspect wearing a creepy clown mask smashed the main window display of the Crystal Image jewellery shop. The offender intended to grab high-value merchandise from the window display. However, the attempt was immediately disrupted by alert passersby and local business employees.

Public Heroism and Police Arrest

Several members of the public intervened to stop the burglar. A "have-a-go hero" actively confronted the suspect, which led to the robbery being thwarted. The suspect fled the immediate storefront, leaving behind a bicycle and the clown mask, but was quickly apprehended by responding police officers nearby. The stolen goods were successfully recovered and returned to the shop owners, the Eaton family.

Devon and Cornwall Police later appealed for the brave member of the public who intervened to come forward, as they left the scene before giving their details, and police wanted to ensure they were uninjured.

Suspect Charged

Following the arrest, police charged 37-year-old Thomas Hewer, of Redruth, with burglary in connection with the incident. The owners of Crystal Image took to social media to thank the local community for their support and swift actions, saying they are "forever grateful" to everyone who helped prevent a major loss.