The Ames Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating the whereabouts of a local jewelry thief.

Police have issued an arrest warrant for 25-year-old Eric Martin. Martin is charged with first-degree theft with a bond of $50,000 for the theft of diamonds and other precious gems from Ames Silversmithing, 220 Main St., March 26.

Ames Police Cmdr. Jim Robinson said Martin was recently identified by Ames Silversmithing employees and witnesses that were with him at the store during the time of the robbery.

According to a statement issued by Ames Police, the investigation revealed a male entered the business and was being shown store merchandise by an employee. The employee turned away and the suspect took an undisclosed amount of jewelry and gems before he fled the scene.

It is believed the suspect ran west on Main Street, south on Kellogg Avenue and west though the central business district parking lot. No weapons were displayed and no injuries were reported.

Robinson said the total retail value of the merchandise stolen is not being released, but did say that for the charge of first-degree theft, the total amount must exceed $10,000. First-degree theft is a Class C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Martin is described by police as a 25-year-old male with long wavy hair, 5-foot-11 and about 170 pounds. According to police, Martin was last known to drive a green 1993 Pontiac Bonneville with Iowa license plate 006 MQB or 485 JTB. The vehicle has a large dent on the passenger side. Robinson said Martin was last known to be living in Davenport.

Any individual with information about Martin is encouraged to contact Ames Police at 239-5133 or 239-5132.

— Jolene Hull