Distraction theft in Bowmanville results in stolen jewelry: police

Police released an image of what they believe to be the suspects' vehicle. (Credit: Durham Regional Police)

Police are searching for three suspects after a man allegedly had his jewelry stolen during a distraction theft outside his Bowmanville home earlier this week.

Durham police say a man and a woman approached the victim on Wednesday at around 3:35 p.m.in the vicinity of Simpson Avenue and Hobbs Drive.

The two suspects, who were driving in a white Jeep Grand Cherokee, were accompanied by a youth between the ages of 14-18, police say.

The suspects stopped their vehicle near the victim’s home and asked for directions, after which they talked about religion and asked to pray with the victim, investigators say.

The male suspect held the victim’s hand and placed a ring on his hand while the female suspect exited the vehicle and placed a necklace on the victim’s neck while hugging him, police say.

After providing the apparent “gifts,” the suspects left the area.

The victim realized that his real jewelry had been stolen once they left.

Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspects.

They describe the male suspect as a brown man between 40-50 years old, with a mustache and facial hair. The female suspect is described as being of similar age and wearing a pink headscarf.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Durham police at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 1636, or Crime Stoppers anonymously.