New type of distraction theft targets seniors

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, September 4, 2025  12:00 p.m.

(Ottawa) —The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is warning residents of a new type of distraction theft targeting seniors across the city.

In these thefts, seniors are being approached by the suspects in public and asked for directions. Once the suspects get close, they place a necklace around the victim’s neck as a “thank you gift.” In the process of giving the necklace, the suspects remove the victim’s jewellery.

The OPS has received approximately 70 reports of distraction thefts city-wide so far this year, with 62 of those occurring between April 1st and September 2nd.

This newer variation of this theft has been reported 50 times in 2025, with 20 of those reports filed since June.

Four ways to help protect yourself and others:

• Avoid displaying expensive or sentimental jewellery in public; keep it covered when possible.
• Stay alert to your surroundings, especially in parking lots and less busy areas.
• Do not allow strangers to invade your personal space or touch you — if someone tries to place an object on you, it’s a red flag.
• If approached by a stranger under suspicious circumstances, walk away and seek help if needed.

Thieves may target jewellery, but wallets, phones, and purses are also at risk.

If you believe you’ve been a victim or witness to a distraction theft and the suspect is still nearby, do not attempt to follow them. Instead, call 911 immediately and try to remember as many details as possible, including their physical description, clothing, and any vehicle involved (make, model, licence plate, etc.).

Contact information
If you have information about these incidents, please contact the OPS at 613-236-1222 ext. 7300.

Stay anonymous and call Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or submit a tip online at crimestoppers.ca.

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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.

CONTACT: 

Media Relations

Tel: 613-236-1222, ext.  5366

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