Back-to-back distraction thefts reported in Guelph

A vehicle believed to be involved in distraction thefts in Guelph. (Source: Guelph Police)

Guelph Police are once again warning the public about distraction thefts.

They said two incidents were reported, just minutes apart, on Monday afternoon.

A woman in her 50s told officers she was approached by two people in a black SUV near the intersection of Ironwood Road and Scottsdale Drive. She said the female passenger offered her gifts and then hugged her. During that interaction, the victim’s necklace was stolen.

“The victim realized what was happening and tried to stop it but was shoved and the vehicle fled,” police said in a media release.

The female suspect was described as being in her late 20s with a slim build and wearing a white or pink headscarf. The driver was a man in his 40s, with brown skin and a medium build. The victim also told police there were two children in the SUV.

Another distraction theft happened just a few minutes later.

Police said a woman in her 80s was walking on Pine Ridge Drive when a black vehicle pulled up beside her. The female passenger allegedly stole the woman’s necklace while the two were talking.

The suspect description was similar to the other incident, but the second victim described the female as having light brown skin.

“Police services across Ontario have seen an increase in these distraction-type thefts,” a media release said. “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.”

Police said the thieves try to catch people off guard.

“In grocery store or mall parking lots, on sidewalks or near store entrances, while entering or exiting vehicles, when carrying groceries or other items,” they warned. “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.”