Brockville Police Service and other Ontario agencies are urging residents to remain vigilant after a surge in distraction-style jewelry thefts.Two recent incidents occurred in Brockville, where suspects approached victims in parking lots, distracted them with fake jewelry offers, and swapped genuine pieces for counterfeit ones.A 1:30 p.m.incident on July 4 involved four individuals in a dark SUV attempting to sell a necklace, replacing the victim’s real necklace with a fake.A similar theft occurred on June 10, with suspects targeting a woman in a residential area.Police emphasize that these crimes often occur during routine activities like grocery shopping, when victims’ guard is down.Pawn shop owner Wade Betts highlighted his business’s role in tracking stolen goods through documentation and police checks.

Similar incidents have been reported in Mississauga, Winnipeg, and Vancouver, with suspects using tactics like hugs and fake blessings to distract victims.Authorities urge caution, advising against purchasing unsolicited jewelry and encouraging victims to document valuable items for identification.

These thefts highlight a growing trend targeting older adults and those in public spaces, prompting calls for increased awareness and community cooperation.