Police Warns Community as Jewelry Distraction Thefts Increases

The Guelph Police Service is again urging residents to be cautious dealing with strangers after a woman had her necklace stolen during a distraction theft last week.

A Guelph woman in her 60s reported she was walking on Farley Drive just before 1 p.m. October 23 when she was approached by two people in a vehicle. They asked for directions then placed rings and a necklace on her while asking the victim to pray for a sick family member. Afterwards the victim realized her necklace was missing.

The suspects are described as being of South-Asian descent. The woman was 18 to 25 years of age with a heavy build, black hair and long white nails. The man was in his 40s, balding with black hair and a full beard. They were driving a dark-coloured SUV.

Anyone with information is asked to call Constable Andrew Kamenz at 519-824-1212, ext. 7566, email akamenz@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.

In recent months the Guelph Police Service has received numerous reports of similar thefts. In each one, victims were approached in public by two or three individuals in a vehicle and asked for directions or otherwise engaged in conversation. During these interactions the suspects place jewelry on the victim or initiate physical contact by hugging the victim.

Afterwards the victims realize their jewelry has been removed, often replaced with cheap costume jewelry. It is not known at this time whether these occurrences are related.

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 license plates.