A brazen early morning robbery took place Sunday when a thief or thieves smashed into Kenneth Jon Jewelers stealing approximately 50 items valued at about $8,500.

The first Swampscott police unit responded to the 4 a.m. alarm at the Vinnin Square Shopping Center store in under a minute, said Swampscott police Det. Bill Waters.

Police found a sledge hammer thrown through the front door, and, inside, glass cases were smashed, as well, the detective said.

Police officers checked the 435 Paradise Road store for suspects. It appears the thieves grabbed the jewelry and made their way out the back door, which faces Tedesco Country Club, the detective said.

Swampscott has experienced these kinds of crimes in the past but none recently, police said.

The department has learned of similar incidents that took place recently in other North Shore communities, and detectives are following up on these cases to develop leads, the detective said.

Police ask anyone with information about the Kenneth Jon incident to call Swampscott Detectives at 781-595-1111.