During the closing breakfast of Converge in Carlsbad, CA, on Wednesday, September 10, the American Gem Society (AGS) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) jointly recognized law enforcement professionals with the John J. Kennedy Award. The recognition, named after the former president of the Jewelers’ Security Alliance, celebrates those in law enforcement who provide critical support and service to the jewelry industry.
This year’s award went to four recipients, each of whom has demonstrated exceptional dedication and effectiveness in tackling organized crime affecting jewelers and the broader gem and jewelry trade.
Detective Sergeant Luke Johnson, a 22-year veteran of the San Diego Police Department, now leads the Criminal Intelligence Unit, overseeing investigations into organized crime on a national scale.
Detective Taylor Higgins, with 13 years of service in San Diego, specializes in dismantling organized burglary crews operating nationwide.
Senior District Attorney Investigator Joshua Pittsley, with two decades of law enforcement experience, has served with both the El Cajon Police Department and the San Diego District Attorney’s Office.
Detective Nikolas Perez, of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Major Crimes Bureau, is a member of the Organized Retail Crime Task Force and investigates high-profile “smash-and-grab” cases.
The award highlighted a collaborative effort led by these professionals that dismantled a transnational organized crime group responsible for a high-value jewelry burglary in La Jolla, CA. In September 2023, the group gained entry through the rooftop of a jewelry store and stole nearly $10 million in watches and diamonds by cutting open large safes with heavy equipment.
The swift action of the San Diego Police Department’s Criminal Intelligence Unit—specifically the Major Violators Team composed of Sgt. Johnson, Detective Higgins, and Investigator Pittsley—along with Detective Perez in Los Angeles, led to the identification of suspects, surveillance of vehicles and residences, and execution of search warrants. The investigation resulted in multiple arrests across the United States, Canada, and Chile, bringing six suspects to justice and effectively dismantling the crime group.
GIA also played a critical role by identifying stolen diamonds when they were later submitted for grading, further demonstrating the importance of collaboration between law enforcement and the jewelry industry.
The presentation of the John J. Kennedy Award at Converge underscored the industry’s deep gratitude for the service and dedication of law enforcement professionals who protect jewelers, consumers, and communities worldwide.