Guelph Police are investigating yet another distraction theft in the city. On Friday morning, a woman was gardening in her yard when a white SUV pulled up in front of her home. “A female passenger called the victim over before grabbing her hand and starting to pray in another language,” police said in a media release. “During the interaction, the passenger put a necklace, bracelet and rings on the victim. When the parties left the victim noticed her own gold necklace and bracelet were missing.” The driver and passenger were both described as possibly Indian, in their 40s and wearing white. The woman also had on a white hijab. “Police services across Ontario have seen an increase in these distraction-type thefts,” police 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.” “Offenders may appear friendly, well‑spoken, or apologetic, and often try to keep the interaction moving quickly to prevent the victim from reacting,” the release continued. “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.”
