Posted on Thursday May 08, 2025
With the warmer weather approaching, York Regional Police is warning the public about the re-emergence of jewelry distraction thefts and reminding citizens to be cautious when speaking with strangers.
In these incidents, suspects travel around by car, looking to engage with susceptible individuals, usually seniors, who are by themselves and wearing jewelry. One suspect will either entice the victim to come close to the vehicle to ask a question or will come out of the car to speak with the victim.
The suspect will thank the victim by offering a gift, and in some cases, money. During this brief interaction, the suspect is able to remove the piece of jewelry from the victim and leaves the scene.
In several reported incidents, a male has been observed as the driver, while a female in the front passenger seat engages with the victim.
York Regional Police would like to remind citizens to be cautious and protect themselves:
- Be wary of strangers approaching you in public to engage in conversation
- Be cautious of people being overly friendly or asking for directions while closing the distance on your personal space
- Keep your valuables in a safe and secure place that would be difficult for someone to access
- If you witness any suspicious people or activity, or are a victim, contact police immediately
- Criminals are opportunists. Do not give them the opportunity to make you a victim of crime
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, extension 7244. Anyone seeking to provide information anonymously can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or provide a tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.
Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
May 8, 2025
