Multiple distraction thefts in south Ottawa lead to three arrests

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, May 14, 2026    10:15 a.m. 

(Ottawa) — The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) has arrested three individuals in connection with a series of distraction thefts that occurred in the city’s south end On May 2.

Within the span of approximately one hour, OPS received six calls for service reporting distraction-style thefts. In each case, suspects engaged victims in conversation to divert attention while stealing valuables.

A licence plate associated with the suspect vehicle was obtained and quickly shared with responding officers. A short time later, patrol officers located and stopped the vehicle. Three occupants, all from the Greater Toronto Area, were arrested and charged with a robbery offence and several theft-related offences.

Officers recovered a large quantity of stolen property, including gold necklaces, rings, and high-end watches. The suspect vehicle was also seized.

There were no reported injuries.

The investigation is being led by East Criminal Investigations.

Tips to prevent distraction theft:

• Be cautious of strangers approaching you and asking for help or directions
• Keep valuables out of sight and secure
• Maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially in parking lots and public spaces
• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, disengage and move to a safe area

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa Police Service at 613-236-1222. Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.

Related to distraction thefts:

• Distraction theft attempts in neighbourhoods, parking lots, and near community mailboxes
• CAMSafe Supports Distraction Theft Investigation

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Through the Community Safety Data portal data.ottawapolice.ca, members of the public can view, download, and interact with data released by the Ottawa Police Service.

Help make your community safer: register your information and security camera location at CAMSafe.ca to support investigations.

CONTACT: 
Media Relations
Tel: 613-236-1222, ext.  5366

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