Ilia Rostas Muntean, a 22-year-old from Clondalkin, Dublin, has been sentenced to four and a half years in prison for the theft of 12 diamond rings worth €47,000 from Wehrly’s Jewellers in Sligo.
The theft, which occurred on 19 January 2023, was described by Judge Keenan Johnson as a “mean and opportunistic” crime involving premeditation.escribed by Judge Keenan Johnson as “mean and opportunistic” with elements of planning involved.
Details of the Theft
Wehrly’s Jewellers, established in 1875 and operated by Tony Wehrly, was the target of the theft. Muntean and a female accomplice entered the store, where the woman concealed a tray of diamond rings while Muntean distracted staff. The pair then fled in a nearby car.
The stolen items were displayed on a tray in the shop window. CCTV footage revealed that the accomplice tested several glass cabinet doors before taking the rings and concealing them under her jumper. Gardaí confirmed that the pair left Sligo shortly after the theft, travelling back to Dublin at high speeds.
Recovery of the Stolen Jewellery
Detective Garda Gary Conneely led the investigation, identifying the suspects’ vehicle and tracing it to Muntean’s home in Dublin. During the search, Gardaí found tags from the rings and recovered several of the stolen items from Muntean’s car and home. Additional rings were handed over by Muntean the following day, bringing the total recovery to all 12 rings.
A significant lead came from a member of the public who handed in a gold ring found on Castle Street near the store. This evidence, combined with CCTV footage, was instrumental in identifying the suspects.
Muntean, who fled to the United States after the theft, was arrested and deported following collaboration between Gardaí and US Homeland Security. He was taken into custody upon his return to Ireland in September 2024.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Judge Keenan Johnson sentenced Muntean to five and a half years in prison, with the final year suspended on the condition of good behaviour for five years. Muntean was also placed under probation service supervision for one year upon his release and banned from driving for ten years.
In his remarks, the judge emphasised the serious impact of retail theft on businesses. He commended the Gardaí for their investigation and the member of the public who handed in the recovered ring. Judge Johnson acknowledged the stress the Wehrly family experienced during the case and noted the prevalence of such crimes against retailers.
