(IDEX Online News) – Almost 200 people in Melbourne, Australia, who handed over jewelry for repair, valuation or adjustment fell victim to theft when the store owners sold the items.

 

Jewelers Roger and Georgette Aznavorian have been charged with stealing 180 jewelry items with a value of $2.4 million that were handed over by 170 customers, according to Jeweler magazine.

 

The jewelry items were allegedly stolen from customers from 2008 to 2010, with some items, including rings and watches, said to be valued at more than $50,000, while some jewelry was pawned for cash.

 

The pair was arrested and charged in February following a two-year police investigation.

 

The couple is due to appear again in court next month.