Police have issued a warning about distraction thefts after two alleged incidents reported on the same day – and investigators believe the occurrences to be linked, say Northumberland OPP.
Police are also calling on the public for help with their probe.
Police said the one incident they responded to was on May 19 at about 3:30 p.m. and followed the theft of cash from a County Road 45 address in Alnwick/Haldimand.
“The caller advised that a male entered the property while they were outside and engaged in conversation regarding the whereabouts of a farm,” explained police. “The complainant later noticed a second male on the other side of the property.”
After both men left in a silver passenger vehicle, the victim noticed money was taken from inside the residence, said police.
On the same day, another caller advised that while they were outside, a man had come onto their property on Morrow Road in the Municipality of Trent Hills, reported OPP.
“He also began a similar conversation before leaving the address. The victim later realized that their jewelry box was no longer in the residence.”
Officers believe the occurrences are linked, and the investigations are ongoing.
Police are asking anyone who may have seen the vehicle and occupants, or anyone who has video/dashcam recordings, to reach out to police at 1-888-310-1122.
Crime Stoppers is also an anonymous option by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting Crime Stoppers online.
Tipsters do not have to testify in court and information submitted this way can lead to a cash reward of up to $2,000.
(Written by: Sarah Hyatt)
