COBOURG (January 6, 2025) – The Cobourg Police Service (CPS) encourages the public to take precautions after receiving a report of a distraction theft in Cobourg over the weekend.
In the recently reported distraction theft, a 78-year-old woman had her wallet and cell phone stolen from a shopping cart at a local grocery store.
Distraction thieves often work in teams, stealing wallets, purses, or valuables. Their victim is distracted by a diversion they create or while the victim is browsing in a store or checking out at the register. Victims may not realize until later that their property has been taken.
CPS encourages everyone to take steps to help prevent distraction theft.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Keep your purse or wallet secured and with you.
- Keep your personal items within your eyesight while shopping, and do not leave any items unattended.
- If someone appears suspicious and randomly tries to engage in a conversation, pay close attention to your property.
- Be cautious if someone offers to help you bag or carry items you have purchased.
- Be aware if someone is standing too close in a store or checkout line.
- Always lock your vehicle doors, even when you exit just for a moment.
- Lock purchases in the trunk of your car. Do not leave them in plain sight.
- Have your keys ready – don’t spend time fumbling for them
- Report any suspicious activity to police.
Report distraction theft to the police. If the suspect is still there or in sight, call 9-1-1 immediately. Please share this information with friends and family.