Cobourg police are reminding residents to stay alert after a senior had her wallet stolen in a classic distraction theft scheme.
On June 18, a 76-year-old woman reported being approached by a woman in a retail store asking for help with clothing. While she was assisting, a man quietly reached into her purse and took her wallet. The theft wasn’t discovered until she went to pay for her items.
The Cobourg Police Service says distraction thieves often work in teams, using one person to engage a target while another steals valuables. These incidents can happen while browsing, checking out, or even in parking lots.
Police encourage the public to stay vigilant, secure purses or wallets, and be cautious of strangers asking for help or standing too close. Personal items should always be kept within sight and vehicles locked even for brief stops.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Cobourg Police at 905-372-6821 or leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or www.stopcrimehere.ca.
If a suspect is still in sight, call 9-1-1 immediately.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
