6 distraction thefts in one hour leads to multiple charges
Posted May 14, 2026 12:27:10 PM.
Last Updated May 14, 2026 12:27:18 PM.
Police were called several times within an hour for distraction-style thefts in the city’s south end on May 2.
In each case, officials learned that the three suspects engaged with the victims in conversation while diverting their attention from stealing the valuables. These types of thefts have been increasingly common in the nation’s capital and often target older adults.
For this incident, officers were called six times in an hour, and were able to get a licence plate from the suspect vehicle. It was shared with other officers, and the vehicle was stopped a short time later, the press release reads.
According to officials, they arrested and charged three people from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) with several robbery and theft-related offences.
Through the investigation, police recovered a “large quantity” of stolen property, including gold necklaces, rings and high-end watches. The vehicle the trio were driving was also seized by officers.
Thefts on the rise in Ottawa
According to data shared by the Ottawa police, all types of theft — $5,000 under and over and of a motor vehicle — rose by 28 per cent year-over-year. Officials noted that 2,700 reports have been filed as of Feb. 12, a large jump seen compared to the same period last year.
To date, police have charged 334 people in theft-related cases, with another 102 given warnings, diversions or other consequences.
Police previously warned that distraction thefts target older adults who are often out in their community. In some instances, the suspects have asked for directions and, as a “thank you,” tried to give a gift like a necklace.
In one situation, a gun was pointed at a 74-year-old who was out walking in his neighbourhood.
