Video captures reported silverware theft suspect in North Fort Myers

A North Fort Myers antique mall owner is hopeful for justice after discovering a silverware set was stolen from her shop.

"I just thought he was just a regular guy coming in and purchasing, bringing me a pile of things for me to give him a good price," said Sandi Rubino Smith, owner of The Paris Market Antique Mall.

"When I was dusting. I saw a big blank space," she said.

Security footage shows a couple entering the store, browsing items, and trying some on. The video captures the man as he appears to inspect forks, spoons, and glasses before reportedly taking a box containing a high-end French silverware set and walking to the back.

Smith said the man reportedly moved a post and wood plank to open an emergency exit door and left with the box of silverware.

"We've been in business for almost 11 years, and we've never had this happen, particularly to this extent. It was quite expensive. That's kind of disappointing," Smith said.

Smith told deputies the stolen silverware set would cost about $10,000 to replace. She also said that the Christofle brand set was on sale for $1,700.

"All you can be is hopeful of the situation and just take precautions that hopefully it doesn't happen again," Smith said.