Cornwall police are warning residents to be on guard against distraction thefts, a crime where one person diverts a victim’s attention while another steals their valuables. The warning comes as police forces across Ontario report a sharp rise in these incidents, with seniors—typically between 60 and 90 years old—being the main targets.
Distraction thieves often work in pairs or small groups, typically approaching older adults who are alone and wearing visible jewelry. Common tactics include asking for directions, offering fake jewelry as a gift, hugging the victim, or placing costume jewelry on them while removing real pieces unnoticed. In a recent case near Ottawa, on April 26, 2026, a senior in Carleton Place had her necklace taken while a woman pretended to let her try on a bracelet.
While Cornwall Police have not released local numbers, the problem is clear elsewhere. Toronto has seen a 1,235 percent increase in distraction thefts this year, with 374 incidents reported compared to only 28 in the same period the year before. Ottawa has recorded more than 120 incidents as of fall 2025. Police believe organized crime groups are behind many of these thefts.
In Cornwall, property crime is already on the rise. Thefts from vehicles under $5,000 jumped 101 percent in 2025 compared to 2024, and shoplifting went up 62 percent. These numbers, shared by Deputy Chief Chad Maxwell earlier this year while presenting 2025 annual crime statistics, show an overall increase that makes the distraction theft warning even more urgent for locals.
The Cornwall Police Service is asking residents to take simple steps to protect themselves. Keep valuables out of sight, stay aware of your surroundings in public places and businesses, and report any suspicious activity right away. Officers are also reminding people that distraction thieves often target seniors, so checking in on older family members and neighbours can make a difference.
