A dental assistant in Rocky Point was charged with multiple counts of grand larceny for allegedly stealing jewelry from patients.

Police say Arieta Gouvakis, 38, stole gold jewelry off the fingers and necks of two patients last week while they were under nitrous oxide sedation at Long Island Implant and Dentist in Rocky Point.

Gouvakis was only hired about three weeks ago, according to Dr. Nick Augenbaum. He says he had no idea what she was allegedly doing while she was with patients.

"We're pretty appalled about what happened," Augenbaum says.

Once patients came forward and reported that items were missing after they left the office, Augenbaum contacted Suffolk police.

Police say they were able to find the stolen jewelry at local pawn shops.

After Gouvakis was arrested at her cousin's home in Manorville, family members told News 12 that they were stunned at the charges but say she may have a drug problem.

Gouvakis was ordered held on $60,000 bond.

Her court-appointed attorney did not comment after her arraignment, but did ask the judge for a mental health evaluation.

Any other patients who think they are a victim are asked to call the Seventh Squad at 631-852-8752.