Rise of distraction thefts in Niagara region prompt police warning

Niagara police are urging the community to be vigilant as calls for jewellery distraction thefts rise.

Niagara Regional Police Service detectives say they have received over 65 distraction theft calls for service that happened throughout the region since January 2025.

The thefts often involve multiple people 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.

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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 Niagara police says they encourages providing assistance to others, they advise using caution when approached by strangers and to 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 also contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477(TIPS).

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