Ex-Salem jeweler gets 20 years for theft of $800K worth of gems, jewelry

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — A former Salem jeweler was sentenced to 20 years in prison Thursday for the theft of gemstones and jewelry pieces from 19 of his customers.

According to the Polk County District Attorney’s Office, Douglas Wayne Gamble, owner of Timeless Jewelers, pleaded guilty to 21 counts of stealing and defrauding customers of previous jewelry, watches and cash between 2018 and 2022.

At the end of 2022, several customers began reporting the loss of money and property while contracting with Gamble to design, repair or consign jewelry pieces.

In some cases, customers claimed lab-grown stones were sold as natural diamonds or diamond jewelry was swapped with synthetic stones, authorities said. Others reported never receiving their items or pieces left with the shop for repair, according to authorities.

Then, without having told the customers or returning their jewelry pieces, the store unexpectedly closed in October 2022.

Police later arrested Gamble on Sept. 15, 2023.

According to the Salem Police Department, “ a total of 27 people fell victim to Gamble with a total aggregate loss estimated between $700,000 and $800,000.”

In addition to the 21 counts of theft and aggravated theft, Gamble also pleaded guilty to one count of first-degree criminal mistreatment aggravated theft involving the stealing of $380,000 from a family member.

Gamble will additionally be required to pay restitution to all of the victims involved, the total of which is estimated at more than $500,000.

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