Police investigating two distraction thefts at Ottawa homes in June
Ottawa police are asking for the public's help to locate suspects, after two people had jewelry stolen in distraction thefts at homes last month.
The first incident occurred on June 26 in the 2200 block of Hillary Avenue in the Alta Vista neighbourhood.
Police say a 92-year-old woman was sitting outside her residence when a vehicle stopped in her driveway and waved her over between 4:45 p.m. and 5 p.m.
'Believing the people in the vehicle to be neighbours, the victim approached. The female suspect sitting in the backseat asked to look at the victim's rings,' police said.
'Throughout the interaction the suspect removed a necklace and two rings from the victim before she could be stopped.'
The suspects left the scene in a light-coloured four-door sedan driven by a man. Police say the female suspect may go by the name 'Maria,' and had shorter, light brown hair.
The second incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on June 28 in the 1500 block of Beaverpond Drive in the Pineview neighbourhood.
A 94-year-old man was at home when a woman knocked on the door.
'Upon answering, the suspect placed a gold necklace around the victim's neck and then left,' police said.
'Shortly after, the victim realized that the gold necklace he had been wearing was missing.'
Investigators are asking residents and businesses in the areas to review any security, doorbell or dashcam footage for anything suspicious. Anyone with information can contact the Ottawa Police Service's Alternate Response Unit at 613-236-1222, ext. 5300.
'If you believe you have been a victim or witness to a distraction theft and the suspect is still nearby, do not attempt to follow them,' police said. 'Instead, call 9-1-1 immediately and try to note as many details as possible, including the suspect's physical description, clothing, and any associated vehicle (make, model, license plate, etc.).'
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