Suspect identified in West Vancouver distraction thefts
Credit to Author: Stephanie Ip| Date: Thu, 22 Aug 2019 17:29:13 +0000
Police have identified a suspect in a series of distraction thefts targeting seniors in West Vancouver.
According to West Vancouver police, the first incident took place Tuesday afternoon in an apartment located in the 1300-block Clyde Avenue.
A 94-year-old woman was approached by a man in the hallway of her building who sparked up a conversation with her. While the victim was distracted, the man stole her wallet.
Two hours later in the same building, an 84-year-old woman was approached by a man who convinced her to let him into her apartment. Once inside, the suspect located and stole her wallet.
Just over an hour later at a building about two kilometres away, a resident spotted a suspicious man inside who was attempting to talk to residents. When confronted, the man left the area.
Police said the two victims then discovered that their stolen debit and credit cards had been used in multiple fraudulent transactions.
Investigators have since identified a suspect but anyone who believes they may have been targeted in a distraction theft should contact West Vancouver police.
No charges have been recommended as the investigation is still underway.
Distraction thefts often include overwhelming the victim with kindness or conversation and removing jewelry or wallets while the victim is unaware and engaged with the suspect. Victims often do not realize they have been targeted until after the interaction has long ended.