Jewelry stolen from car during oil change, what can I do?

[leegaltender]

Quick gist: I went into an auto shop to get a routine oil change. I had an expensive piece of jewelry (value over $1,000) stolen from my vehicle afterwards.

Now, the issue is that I did not immediately catch this as they left the box in the glove compartment and only took the jewelry. There is no surveillance video so I understand this will only be a matter of hearsay.

I have already filed a police report but they have not caught anyone nor have they found my jewelry. Just to already put it out there- there is absolutely no way no one else has access to my vehicle at any other time. These people were the only ones who had access. Also, I would have not gone through the trouble of filing a false police report if I was not 100% sure of this crime being committed.

Can I open a civil lawsuit against the business? And also, how much money can I ask for? Also, if you could please detail a bit of the process and how/what I need to do and under what category. I have never had to sue anyone before in my life.

TRULY truly truly appreciate it!

 

[army judge]

You know this case isn't going to end the way you want it to end, with a $1,000 judgment in your favor against the oil change shop.

You certainly are free to bring a small claims lawsuit.

But, you must prove your allegations, not simply rely on supposition, suspicion, or deduction.

Absent any witnesses, any video, or any proof that Leroy, Bubba, Brownie, or Slappy caught "greasy handed" stealing your stuff, you're wasting your time and your money.

If you have a homeowners policy (or a renters policy), you can certainly report the matter to your insurer, see what the insurance company says.
Some auto policies will also cover certain thefts.
You're free to ask your auto insurer, too.

Don't get your hopes up, insurance companies are sticklers for proof, too!