In response to a rise in jewellery distraction thefts, the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) is urging residents to remain vigilant in protecting their personal property. NRPS Detectives have received over 65 distraction theft calls for service that have occurred throughout the entire region since January 2025.
The thefts often involve multiple suspects who arrive in a van or SUV and begin a conversation with the victim, often asking for directions. After befriending the victim, the suspect becomes insistent on providing a thank you gift, often in the form of a piece of fake jewellery. The suspect then places it over their neck and simultaneously removes the victim’s real jewellery. The suspects then leave the area before the victim is aware their jewelry has been stolen.
While the NRPS encourages providing assistance to others, we advise the public to use caution when approached by strangers and be mindful when anyone unknown to you is attempting to approach into your personal space.
If you believe you are a victim of a distraction theft or wish to report a suspicious incident regarding distraction thefts, please contact the Niagara Regional Police Service at 905 688 4111.
Members of the community who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477(TIPS). Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to people who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.