safety
Michigan man charged in organized scheme involving stolen $116,000 watch in Miami
By Allyson Castillo at WSVN 7 News
· July 15, 2026
· 2 min read
A Michigan man is facing felony charges after Miami police say he sold a stolen $116,000 luxury watch to a local jewelry store using false documentation. According to the affidavit, the case began Sept. 30, 2024, when a victim in California messaged an Instagram account for “Gallery Watch Spot,” off
Key takeaway 30, 2024, when a victim in California messaged an Instagram account for “Gallery Watch Spot,” offering to sell a gold Audemars Piguet Royal Oak wristwatch for $116,000.
Why this matters in The Miami
The case of the stolen $116,000 luxury watch highlights the reach of organized crime into Miami's high-end jewelry market. With its vibrant neighborhoods like the Design District and Wynwood, Miami has become a hub for luxury goods, making it an attractive target for thieves and scammers. The fact that the watch was sold to a local jewelry store, G Luxe Jewelers, using false documentation, raises concerns about the vulnerability of Miami's businesses to such schemes. The Miami Police Department's investigation and the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office's prosecution of the case demonstrate the city's commitment to combating organized crime and protecting its businesses. As the city continues to grow and attract more luxury brands, it will be important for law enforcement and businesses to work together to prevent similar crimes and ensure the integrity of Miami's luxury market. The extradition warrant for Vandester Forma also underscores the cooperation between law enforcement agencies across state lines to bring perpetrators to justice.
About this story
Original reporting by WSVN 7 News . The Miami surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit WSVN 7 News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: safety ·
Published: July 15, 2026 ·
Source: WSVN 7 News ·
Reading time: 2 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? A Michigan man is facing felony charges after Miami police say he sold a stolen $116,000 luxury watch to a local jewelry store using false documentation. According to the affidavit, the case began Sept. 30, 2024, when a victim in California messaged an Instagram account for “Gallery Watch Spot,” off
When was this published? This article was first published on July 15, 2026 by WSVN 7 News and curated for The Miami readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Allyson Castillo at WSVN 7 News. To learn more about how The Miami selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more safety coverage from The Miami, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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