Richmond RCMP are warning the public about fraudsters and distraction thefts after two incidents involving jewelry were reported to them.
Two distraction thefts with a common suspect behaviour and description were reported in Richmond over the past month. In both cases, victims reported being approached by a family in a vehicle who engaged in a conversation with them.
In one instance, the victim noticed her necklace missing after a close interaction where the suspect attempted to swat a bug off her back.
In another instance, the complainant reported the family was trying to sell them jewelry.
“These types of frauds/distraction thefts resurface periodically in our community,” said Richmond RCMP media relations officer Cpl. Melissa Lui.
“We are issuing this public warning to bring awareness and educate people in the hopes of preventing further victimization.”
Police say the suspects had common aspects, including:
- Driving an out-of-province vehicle, often from a rental company.
- Have their family, including children, present inside the vehicle.
- Trying to sell fake gold or jewelry for money.
- Stealing the victim’s jewelry by sleight of hand.
- Emotional stories that prey on the victim’s compassion, for example, needing money to feed the family.
- Attempts to get close and personal, for example, claiming there is a bug on your back.
Tips on staying safe
To stay safe, police are telling people not to let strangers touch you, hug you or go into your personal space, and to stay vigilant at all times, even if going for a walk.
They also encourage the public not to be afraid to say no or yell for help if they feel uncomfortable, and to walk away from any suspicious person or behaviour and report it to police immediately.
Richmond RCMP encourages all victims of fraud or theft to come forward and report these incidents to the police of jurisdiction.
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