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A woman walked into a Hamilton home and stole a gold necklace from a senior in what police are describing as a distraction theft.
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Hamilton Police said Tuesday that a thief entered her victim’s home in Flamborough, under the guise of knowing them around 3:30 p.m. on Sept. 8.
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She embraced the victim with a hug and kiss while placing fake jewelry around her neck, according to the allegations. During this interaction, the woman unclasped and stole the senior’s genuine gold necklace.
Police say they’re looking for a female suspect who’s about 40, 5-foot-7, and has a medium build. She was last seen in a vehicle with front-end damage.
Distraction thefts are on the rise in Hamilton with just nine reported In 2021 compared to 54 in 2024, according to police. This tactic—commonly used against seniors—often involves suspects offering jewelry, hugs, or thanks for directions as a way to get close and steal personal valuables.
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Police urged anyone with information to call 905-546-3851.
Earlier this month, Toronto Police reported that distraction theft had also become an “alarming” problem in the city.
Toronto Police Chief Supt. Mandeep Mann said there have been 374 distraction thefts so far this year compared to just 28 in the same period last year.
Police believe organized crime is behind the sharp increase and that many thefts go unreported.
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