Safety Harbor Man Charged with Stealing, Selling Ex-Wife's Jewelry

A Safety Harbor man has been charged by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office with stealing and then selling his ex-wife's jewelry.

Horst Heinze, 69, was charged with false verification of ownership and dealing in stolen property. He was released on his own recognizance. 

According to the arrest affidavit, Heinze was given permission to fix tile grout in his ex-wife's home while she was out of town. While there, Heinze used a key he had to open a safe and steal the jewelry. 

The jewelry, seven pieces valued at more than $11,000, was taken to a pawn shop in Oldsmar, according to the affidavit.

The sheriff's office said Heinze originally denied stealing the jewelry until authorities notified him they had proof he signed for three jewelry items at the pawn store. 

Heinze, the affidavit said, then admitted to the crime saying he stole and sold the jewelry to pay off money he owed. 

Jail records show Heinze was previously charged with unlicensed specialty contracting in 2007.