Distraction thefts now nearly a daily occurrence in Peel Region

· Toronto Sun

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Cops are warning about an explosion in distraction thefts in Peel Region after thieves stole $19,000 in gold jewelry from an unsuspecting elderly woman in Brampton over the summer.

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Peel Regional Police say the victim of the Brampton theft – reportedly a 78-year-old woman – was walking in the area of Chinguacousy Rd. and Sandalwood Pkwy. W. when she was approached by two women in a white SUV on July 28.

“One of the women exited the vehicle, touched the victim’s feet and hugged her,” police said in a statement released Wednesday. “During the interaction, the (woman) switched the victim’s gold necklace with a metal necklace and removed three gold bangles from her wrists.”

Deputy Chief Marc Andrews said investigators across Peel Region are committed to identifying those responsible for distraction thefts and holding them accountable.

“These incidents can happen in a matter of seconds, and suspects may often rely on appearing friendly or helpful to gain the victim’s trust,” he warned.

So far this year, police say they have received more than 230 reports of distraction thefts across the region and investigators are “looking at possible links between incidents in Peel and similar thefts reported in other parts of Ontario.”

“Distraction thefts involve one or more individuals creating a diversion while personal belongings are taken from a victim,” police said. “Older adults are frequently targeted while alone, either outside their homes or in public spaces.”

Police said thieves often approach victims asking for directions, offering gifts or attempting to engage them in conversation.

“Most incidents occur during daylight hours,” police added.

Officers investigated 25 distraction thefts in 2024 but that number jumped to 222 in 2025, police said.

And the 230 reported distraction thefts this year already top last year’s number with three months still to go in 2026.

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Investigators are reminding citizens to remain aware of their surroundings, be cautious when approached by strangers, avoid unwanted physical contact, report suspicious activity immediately and, if possible, obtain descriptions of suspects and involved vehicles.

“We also want residents to recognize these tactics, trust their instincts and create distance when something does not feel right,” Andrews said. “If someone approaches you and something feels unusual, create some distance, protect your belongings and walk away.”

Environmental awareness is key,” he added.

Anyone with information regarding distraction theft is urged to call police at 905-453-2121 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

QUICK FACTS

– 230 distraction thefts have been reported so far in 2026

– Distraction theft reports increased from 25 in 2024 to 222 in 2025

– Nearly 85% of incidents occurred during afternoon hours between noon and 4 p.m.

– 77% of reported thefts involved gold necklaces, chains, pendants and other jewelry

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