Local Man Part of “Jedi Knights” Jewel Heist Ring Arrested

Ob-Wan Kenobi once said that the Jedi Knights were the guardians of peace and justice in the Old Republic.

This, however, is not very Jedi-like.

According to the Times Herald and a federal criminal complaint, a Marlboro man was arrested last week on federal charges after the FBI accused him of participating in a $1.5 million jewel heist in the state of Connecticut.

The man is reportedly part of burglary crew known as the "Jedi Knights". One witness cooperating with authorities claims the crew has committed between 200 to 400 burglaries

According to the complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Connecticut, 33 year-old Jason Gatto was arrested and released on Jan. 6 on a $50,000 bond after he was charged with conspiracy to transport stolen property across state lines.

According to a complaint by FBI Special Agent Jennifer Berry, Gatto was one of two men entered a home in Salisbury, Connecticut, on Feb. 23, 2012. The two stand accused of stealing $1.5 million worth of jewelry.

Officials say some of the stolen items were sold off in pawn and jewelry shops in various states.

Gatto remains under house arrest.