Guelph Sees Another Senior Targeted in Jewelry Theft Scheme

A routine trip to a Guelph grocery store ended with a Cambridge woman losing a cherished necklace. As distraction-theft schemes continue to rise, police are urging residents to stay alert and avoid unnecessary contact with strangers approaching them in parking lots or public spaces.

Residents are again reminded to be cautious when approached by strangers after a Cambridge woman had her necklace stolen outside a Guelph grocery store.

The woman in her 70s reported that last Thursday she was leaving a business near Victoria Road South and York Road when she was approached by three people in a white SUV. A woman exited the SUV and approached the victim, asking if she could pray with her and attempting to place a necklace and rings on her, which the victim declined.

The woman got back into the SUV and left the area. The victim then realized her gold necklace and heart-shaped pendant were missing.

Police services across Ontario have seen an increase in these distraction-type thefts. Typically, older adults are approached by individuals in a vehicle and engaged in conversation, during which a female passenger will attempt to initiate physical contact by hugging or attempting to place jewelry on the victim. Afterwards the victim realizes their jewelry has been stolen.

Residents should be extremely cautious when approached by individuals not known to them. Try to avoid physical contact and note any identifying information, such as physical descriptions and licence plates. 

Anyone with information about the most recent incident is asked to call Constable Nick Dowe at 519-824-1212, ext. 7602, email ndowe@guelphpolice.ca, leave an anonymous message for Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous tip online at www.csgw.tips.