Peel Regional Police (PRP) are alerting residents about a recent spike in distraction thefts following an incident where an elderly woman was reportedly robbed of nearly $19,000 worth of gold jewellery during a bold act in Brampton.
According to investigators, the robbery took place on July 28 at around 6 p. m. close to Chinguacousy Road and Sandalwood Parkway West.
Police report that the woman was walking in the vicinity when she was approached by two women in a white SUV. One suspect allegedly exited the vehicle, touched the victim’s feet, and embraced her as if they were having a friendly interaction.
During this encounter, authorities say the suspect stealthily swapped the victim’s gold necklace for a metal one and removed three gold bangles from her wrists before fleeing.
This theft is just one of many being investigated throughout Peel Region as police deal with a significant rise in such crimes.
Police Investigating Increase in Similar Cases
Peel police have reported over 230 cases of distraction thefts this year alone, with a total of 266 incidents noted by August 12. This reflects a considerable rise compared to previous years; investigators recorded only 25 incidents in 2024 and 222 in 2025.
Detectives are currently looking into possible connections between these thefts reported in Peel and similar occurrences elsewhere across Ontario. Police indicate that older adults are frequently targeted when they’re alone, either out in public or outside their homes.
“It’s an ongoing investigation, and we are pursuing connections between different cases … around the region,” PRP Det. Nick Arakgi stated at a press conference on Wednesday.
“We’ve seen cases where these culprits seem to work in teams, where there’s multiple people in a vehicle that identify a vulnerable person and approach them. We’ve seen cases where there’s not only adults involved but children in the vehicle as well to give that sense of perceived familiarity to the person they’re approaching.”
Investigators note that suspects often start conversations, ask for directions, offer gifts, or attempt physical contact to build trust and distract victims.
Statistics shared by Peel police reveal that almost 85 percent of reported incidents occurred during afternoon hours between noon and 4 p. m., while 77 percent involved gold necklaces, chains, pendants or other types of jewellery.
Deputy Chief Marc Andrews mentioned that many of these thefts occur within seconds.
“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,” Andrews explained. “Investigators across the region are committed to identifying those responsible and holding them accountable. We also want residents to recognize these tactics, trust their instincts and create distance when something does not feel right.”
The police encourage residents to stay aware of their surroundings and exercise caution when approached by strangers.
If anyone has information regarding the Brampton incident or other distraction thefts, they’re asked to reach out to Peel Regional Police.
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