Former burglar says police owe her $2,500 in jewelry

A woman arrested by Costa Mesa police in September has filed a claim against the city, claiming $2,500 worth of jewelry was not returned to her upon her release from custody.

Renee Nam, 23, stated in her claim that after she was taken into custody Sept. 3 her gems were taken into holding, but when her parents arrived at the station to collect her belongings, the jewelry was lost.

City officials are investigating the claim, City Atty. Kimberly Hall Barlow said.

“The city will investigate and at some point accept, reject, compromise or take no action on the claim,” she said. “I can tell you, from what I know about the case, that I don’t think the claim has any merit.”

Nam pleaded guilty to burglary, grand theft and theft with a prior conviction, and was sentenced to 90 days in jail Sept. 18, court records show. Her sentence was stayed and she must serve three years of probation.

— Chris Caesar