Boyd’s robbed of $300,000 in jewelry

It took just 28 seconds for four armed thieves to steal $300,000 worth of jewelry from Boyds in Center City earlier today.

Police spokesman Lt. Frank Vanore said the robbers entered the posh men's store, on Chestnut Street near 18th, about 2:15 p.m.

One thief aimed a gun at a Boyds' security guard, while another crook sprayed the guard in the face with mace.

Vanore said the remaining two robbers used a hammer to smash open a few display cases and grabbed pricey pieces of jewelry.

The crooks dashed out of the door and sped off in a getaway car, Vanore said. The guard was treated at the scene for minor injuries, but no other employees were injured.

Michelle Carchedi, Boyds' creative director, said the store is scheduled to host a film crew tonight. The crew is shooting scenes for comedy starring Neil Patrick Harris, Carchedi said.