Call to vigilance in the prevention of jewellery theft

14 august 2015

The Service de police de la Ville de Montréal (SPVM) asks citizens to exercise caution in order to prevent jewellery theft perpetrated by con artists in public places. Generally, the thief (a man or a woman) acts alone or as part of a group, uses a vehicle and targets mostly senior citizens. The thief uses false pretences to get close to the victim (talks about a deceased family member, asks for the way to the hospital, asks for the time). The thief will then thank the victim, and offer a piece of jewellery of no value. The thief comes in closer to get the victim to try on the jewellery and places the « fake » one around the neck, wrist or finger of the victim, who doesn’t have the time to react. At the same moment, the thief steals the valuable jewellery that the victim is wearing. The theft is not noticed until later.

Prevention Tips

The SPVM would like to remind you of these prevention tips:
• Travel in a group whenever possible.
• Hide your valuable jewellery until you reach your destination.
• Refuse a gift from a stranger and do not let that person come close to you.

If you are a victim of fraud or theft, or if you think you might be, immediately contact the following resources for help:

• Service de police de la Ville de Montréal: 9-1-1
• Elder Abuse Help Line: 1-888-489-2287
• Tel-Aînés: 514-353-2463
Canadian Anti-Fraud Center: 1-888-495-8501