Distraction-style thefts targeting Windsor seniors prompt police warning

Windsor police are again warning the public of distraction-style thefts after an elderly woman was targeted by strangers who said they wanted to give her jewelry — as a ploy to steal her necklace.

The crime happened May 24 in the 700 block of Argyle Road. Patrol officers were called to the residence of the senior victim around 3:30 p.m.

The victim told police she had been sitting on her porch when a vehicle stopped in front of her house and a female passenger called out to her, asking for directions to the hospital.

The unsuspecting victim provided directions. The female passenger then insisted that she wanted to return the gesture with a gift of jewelry.

The vehicle had two other occupants: a male driver and a second female passenger.

The first female passenger was adamant with the elderly woman, putting on her a necklace and a ring.

After the vehicle left the area, the elderly woman realized that her own necklace had been taken during the encounter.

About an hour later, police responded to a similar incident in the 1800 block of Randolph Avenue.

The victim in the second incident was an elderly male who had been mowing his lawn.

In his case, the female passenger held his hands during their interaction.

After the vehicle departed, the elderly man realized his wedding ring was missing.

The two thefts on May 24 follow the same pattern as an April 26 theft on Turner Road.

The three thieves have been described as a middle-aged woman with dark skin and a thick build, a younger female with dark skin, and an older man with dark skin, dark hair, a moustache and a beard.

The group possibly spoke Spanish to each other. On May 24, the larger woman was wearing an orange shirt.

Windsor police advise that thieves who use distraction tactics typically work in teams, and may appear well-dressed and well-spoken as part of their scheme to make the victim trust them.

Theft investigators can be reached at 519-255-6700 ext. 4350.