HENRICO COUNTY, Va. -- Two sisters were arrested for allegedly stealing jewelry, cash, and fine silverware from nearly a dozen families in two counties while one of them worked as a dog sitter.
Henrico police have charged both Veronica Riddle and Sheila Elizabeth Saunders with 17 felony charges that range from grand larceny, conspiracy to commit larceny, and intent to sell stolen property.
The Goochland County Sheriff's Office has charged Saunders in connection to three similar cases there.
Veronica Riddle and Sheila Elizabeth Saunders
The alleged scheme began in February, court documents show.
Investigators said Riddle worked for a local dog sitting company. According to police, when her clients would leave town, the sisters would steal pricey items from their homes and sell them at local pawn shops.
“Items included jewelry, silver flatware, and currency," said Lt. Chris Eley with the Henrico County Police. "We were able to identify seven victims in Henrico County that we were able to place charges for."
One victim told CBS 6 Riddle had worked at her house 8 to 9 times over the past year and treated her dogs well. The victim said she had no idea any of her jewelry was missing until a detective called her. She then noticed a diamond ring and priceless family pendant had disappeared from her jewelry box.
Investigators said they were alerted to Riddle and Saunders by one client, and after checking with other families Riddle had worked for, more victims emerged.
"We were able to get a list of potential victims. We actually contacted each and every one of them, and they told us they did have items taken once they checked into it," Eley said. “The business had no idea that this was going on. Once we narrowed this down to a certain person, they’ve been completely cooperative throughout the whole investigation.”
The small business police said Riddle worked for declined to comment on an ongoing investigation. The business did confirm that Saunders was never an employee.
Saunders was arrested Sunday. Riddle turned herself into police on Monday. Both were being held without bond at last check. Police said anyone who feels them may have been victimized should contact police.
