Jewelry stolen in Kitchener distraction theft

WRPS included this image of fake jewelry after a Kitchener incident. (Submitted/WRPS)

The Waterloo Regional Police Service is warning the public to stay alert after a woman was a victim of a distraction theft this weekend.

The incident happened Saturday around 12:30 p.m. near Monarch Woods Drive and Ian Ormston Drive in Kitchener.

Investigators said the woman was walking when a red sedan pulled up. The people inside started a conversation with her and offered her jewelry. While they were talking, the suspects distracted the woman, stole her gold earrings and bracelets, and replaced them with fake jewelry before speeding away.

The victim was not hurt. Police have the imitation jewelry left behind.

Investigators are looking for a newer-model red Honda Civic with tinted windows and black rims.

Police included images of fake jewellery they believe was used in the incident.

Police said this is part of a growing trend, and noted they have received numerous reports of similar distraction thefts across the region.

“These incidents occur when suspects intentionally divert a person’s attention to steal valuables, often within seconds and without the victim realizing until after the suspects have left,” police said in a news release.

According to police, thieves frequently work in groups and ask for directions, invade personal space or offer unsolicited gifts and jewelry. While anyone can be a target, police said suspects often focus on older adults, people who are alone or distracted and anyone wearing visible valuables.

Anyone with information, dashcam footage, or video from the area at the time of the incident is asked to contact the Waterloo Regional Police Service general investigations unit at 519-570-9777, ext. 4496, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.