Peel Regional Police are alerting Brampton residents about a growing number of distraction thefts specifically targeting elderly individuals walking alone. Officers report that suspects are approaching victims under friendly pretenses—often asking for directions or conversation—and then coaxing them closer to a nearby vehicle.
Once the elderly person is within reach, the suspects either snatch or discreetly swap the victim’s jewellery before speeding away. In several cases, a woman has acted as a decoy to start the conversation, while a man emerges from a vehicle to forcibly remove the jewellery.
Police say that language barriers have made it harder for victims to realize what is happening until it’s too late. Authorities are urging community members, especially seniors, to stay vigilant when approached by strangers, avoid interacting with people in vehicles, and immediately report suspicious encounters.
Anyone with information, security footage, or dashcam recordings that could help investigators is asked to contact Peel Regional Police at 905-453-2121, extension 2133, or provide tips anonymously through Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.peelcrimestoppers.ca. In emergencies, call 911.