Salem business owner accused of swindling customers out of $250,000 in jewelry and gemstone scam

SALEM, Ore. — Salem Police Felony Crimes Unit detectives arrested Douglas Wayne Gamble, 57, on September 15, 2023 for his involvement in the theft of gemstones and jewelry pieces from customers.

Gamble is the owner of Timeless Jeweler, located at 1105 Edgewater ST NW in Salem, became detective's main person of interest after a series of theft reports were filed, starting in late 2022.

10 victims reported the loss of money and property when doing business with Gamble, contracted to customers to help design, repair, or consign jewelry pieces.

In a few cases customers reported lab-grown stones were sold 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 in October 2022, without notification to customers or the return of their property.

Gamble surrendered to detectives without incident on Friday September, 15th 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 have estimated the total loss of Gamble's customers at $250,000. This is an ongoing investigation.

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).