Casing the Jewel Store

Michael and Lester scout a high-end jewelry store in Rockford Hills, preparing for a large-scale heist.

“Casing the Jewel Store” is a setup mission in Grand Theft Auto V that marks the first step in executing the planned robbery of Vangelico, a luxury jewelry store in Rockford Hills. Players assist Michael in scouting the store’s Security and layout, helping to determine the best approach for the heist. The mission introduces players to heist planning, focusing on reconnaissance and decision-making that will influence the heist’s outcome.

The mission “Casing the Jewel Store” involves Michael working with Lester to gather intelligence on the jewelry store Vangelico, which they plan to rob. Players are tasked with surveying the store’s layout, identifying Security measures, and capturing key details that will help in planning the upcoming heist. This mission introduces elements of stealth and strategic observation, allowing players to influence the way the heist will be carried out.

Objectives

• Meet Lester and drive to Vangelico to begin surveillance.
• Enter the store and gather information about its layout and Security measures.
• Head to the rooftop and photograph the store’s ventilation system.
• Return to Lester’s factory to discuss the findings and plan the heist.

Setting

The mission is set primarily in the upscale area of Rockford Hills, Los Santos, centering on the luxurious Vangelico Jewelry Store. Players will experience the process of preparing for the heist as they scout the store, navigate the surrounding buildings, and plan the robbery.

Objective 1: Meet Lester

• Drive to Vangelico: The mission begins with Michael picking up Lester. Drive to Vangelico, located in Rockford Hills. During the drive, Lester will explain the plan and why they’re targeting the store.

Objective 2: Survey the Store

• Enter Vangelico: Walk into the jewelry store as a customer. Engage with the salesperson to observe the store’s Security systems and gather information on its layout.
• Surveillance: After leaving the store, Lester will prompt you to drive around the back of the building to find a way onto the roof.

Objective 3: Photograph the Ventilation System

• Reach the Roof: Use a ladder to access the rooftops. Lester will guide you through this via radio communication. Once on the roof, locate the store’s ventilation system.
• Take Photos: Use Michael’s phone to photograph the vents. These photos will be used later to plan the entry point for the heist.

Objective 4: Return to Lester’s Factory

• Head Back: After photographing the ventilation system, return to the car and drive to Lester’s garment factory. Lester will review the information gathered and discuss potential approaches for the heist.

Mission Conclusion

• Debriefing: At the factory, a cutscene will play where Lester reviews the footage and presents two heist approaches: a loud, aggressive method or a quieter, stealthier option. This choice will affect how the heist unfolds.
• Rewards: Completing this mission sets the stage for the Vangelico heist, unlocking further preparation Missions.

• This mission introduces Lester Crest, who becomes the mastermind behind many heists throughout the game.
• The mission allows players to choose between two heist approaches—“Smart” (stealthy) or “Loud” (aggressive), which changes how the heist will play out.
• The jewelry store, Vangelico, is based on the real-life luxury jewelry brand **Van Cleef & Arpels**, adding to the game’s detailed world-building.
• The reconnaissance element in this mission sets the tone for future heist planning Missions, where gathering intel is crucial to success.
• This mission takes place relatively early in the game, marking Michael’s return to a life of crime after his supposed retirement.