Woman Overhears Suspected Theft Plot In Guelph Parking Lot

What started as a simple walk through a parking lot quickly became something far more unsettling. This incident sheds light on a growing trend that police say residents need to be aware of.

The Guelph Police Service is investigating after three would-be thieves were heard discussing how to steal a Guelph woman’s jewelry Tuesday morning.

A Guelph woman reported she was walking to her vehicle outside the Walmart on Stone Road West approximately 10 a.m. Tuesday when she was approached by a man and two women in a vehicle. The woman overheard the man speaking Serbian to the two passengers and telling them to get the woman to lean into the vehicle so they could steal her jewelry. The complainant quickly walked to her vehicle.

The suspect male was described as having a heavy build and dark hair. The two female passengers had thin builds; one with a headscarf tied at the neck and the other with dark hair. They were driving a grey van or SUV.

Anyone with information is asked to call Constable Todd Van Iersel at 519-824-1212, ext. 7557, email tvaniersel@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.

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.