The Cobourg Police Service (CPS) is reminding residents to remain vigilant and take precautions following recent reports of distraction thefts in Cobourg.
Distraction thieves often work in teams, targeting victims by creating a diversion while stealing wallets, purses, or other valuables. These incidents commonly occur in public places such as parking lots, retail stores, or financial institutions. In many cases, victims do not realize their property has been taken until after the suspects have left the area.
In one incident, an 85-year-old woman exiting a financial institution on King Street was approached by an unknown woman who offered assistance. During the interaction, the suspect removed the victim’s wallet from her purse, re-entered the bank, and used one of the victim’s cards to obtain $1,000 in cash. Thankfully, the victim informed the bank after realizing her wallet was missing, the cards were cancelled, and she was reimbursed for the fraudulent charge. The investigation is ongoing.
In a second incident, a 72-year-old woman reported that while shopping at a business in the north end of Cobourg, her wallet was taken from her purse. Fraudulent purchases totalling over $1,000 were later made using her credit card. The investigation is ongoing.
CPS encourages everyone to take steps to help prevent distraction theft:
• Be aware of your surroundings and pay close attention to your property.
• Be cautious if someone randomly tries to engage you in conversation.
• Be wary if someone asks for help or offers unsolicited assistance.
• Be alert if someone is standing too close to you.
• Keep your purse or wallet secured and with you at all times.
• Do not leave purses, wallets, or valuables unattended.
• Always lock your vehicle doors, even if you step away briefly.
• Report any suspicious activity to police.
Anyone who believes they may be a victim of distraction theft is encouraged to report it to police. If the suspect is still on scene or in sight, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
