FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 

DATE:  October 26, 2023

CONTACT:     Salem Police Communications Office | spdmedia@cityofsalem.net

Update 10/26/2023 | 4:45 p.m.

After the publication of the original media release, another 18 victims have come forward to report losses after doing business with Douglas Wayne Gamble and his store, Timeless Jeweler, in west Salem.

The additional cases were referred to the Polk County District Attorney’s Office, seeking multiple additional charges of aggravated theft, first degree theft, and second-degree theft.

A total of 27 people fell victim to Gamble with a total aggregate loss estimated between $700K and $800K.

Gamble remains lodged in the Polk County Jail.

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Originally published 9/18/2023 | 1:15 p.m.

Salem, Ore. — Detectives from the Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit arrested Douglas Wayne Gamble on September 15, 2023 for his involvement in the theft of gemstones and jewelry pieces from customers.

Gamble, age 57, owner of the business Timeless Jeweler located at 1105 Edgewater ST NW in Salem, became the person of interest in a series of theft reports filed with the Salem Police Department starting in late 2022. Ten victims reported the loss of money and property when doing business with Gamble who contracted with customers to design, repair, or consign jewelry pieces.

In some cases, customers reported lab-grown stones were sold to them as natural diamonds, or diamond jewelry settings were swapped with synthetic stones. Other customers reported never receiving purchased items or pieces left with the shop for repair, or other services. The store unexpectedly closed last October without notification to customers or the return of their property.

A conservative estimate of the total loss by Gamble’s customers is set at $250,000.

Gamble surrendered to detectives without incident on Friday and was arrested. He is currently lodged at the Polk County Jail on the following charges:

• Aggravated theft, five counts
• Theft in the first degree, six counts

Detectives ask anyone who has had similar incidents involving Gamble, through the store or online, to file a police report by calling the police non-emergency line at 503-588-6123 (option 1).

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