It is a shame what drugs will do to you and your families.
Arrest forces store to close doors.
BY RACHEL KYLER SUN REPORTER
Bijou Elegant Jewelry is closing its doors after 10 years in Seaside.
?Bijou has closed its doors and is leaving Seaside,? Rick Severance, CEO of Seaside Community Development Corporation said. ?We believe it is best for all parties. It was a joint decision between tenant and landlord.?
The jewelry store?s owner, Laurent Braconnier 46, of Seaside, was arrested Feb. 12 for possession of methamphetamine.
Braconnier was at the Walton County Sheriff?s South Walton substation after being arrested for causing a disturbance on Feb.11.
According to Walton County Sheriff?s Office reports, Braconnier had been at Caf? Spiazzia threatening to kill an exgirlfriend, her current boyfriend and her 3-year old son.
After being transported to the Walton County substation, a search of Braconnier?s personal belongings revealed a bottle of crystal meth.
Severance said the recent arrest ?was one of many factors? leading to Bijou?s closing.
In May 2005, Braconnier was charged with two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. According to reports, Braconnier stabbed a 22-year old male on May 29, 2004 following a verbal disagreement.
According to Severance, a replacement tenant will take over the lease after Seaside goes under reconstruction.
?The owner is going through a difficult time,? Severance said. Braconnier could not be reached for comment. His plea date is set for March 21.