Niagara Regional Police are warning residents to stay alert following a spike in jewellery distraction thefts across the region.
Since January, detectives have received over 65 reports of thefts involving suspects who typically arrive in a van or SUV and approach victims under the guise of asking for directions or conversation.
After gaining trust, a suspect offers a fake piece of jewellery as a “thank you” gift, placing it around the victim’s neck while secretly removing their real jewellery.
The suspects then leave before the victim realizes what’s happened.
Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted or witnessed a similar incident is urged to contact Niagara Regional Police.
(Written by: Brandon Warby)