

433: Larry Lawton | From Jewel Thief to Honorary Cop Part Two
Nov 19, 2020
Larry Lawton, a former jewel thief turned youth advocate, shares his thrilling journey of stealing over $18 million in diamonds and spending 11 years in federal prison. He dives into the adrenaline rush of heists, the meticulous planning behind them, and the bizarre dynamics of robbers and victims during a crime. Lawton also discusses the legal complexities surrounding major crimes and reflects on what he would do differently with his skills today. His insights reveal a path from chaos to redemption, emphasizing the importance of guiding youth away from crime.
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Altering Appearance
- Larry Lawton altered his appearance before casing jewelry stores, changing his hair and facial hair.
- Despite this, eyewitness descriptions of him were often wildly inaccurate, highlighting the unreliability of such accounts.
Meticulous Planning
- Lawton meticulously planned his getaways before robbing stores, prioritizing escape routes and minimizing visibility.
- He sometimes waited inside for over 20 minutes for obstacles, like a lingering police officer, to clear.
Crew Selection
- Lawton worked with a crew of two, including his brother, emphasizing trust and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
- He once tested a potential crew member who panicked and abandoned the job, highlighting the need for reliable accomplices.