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
