Gaithersburg, MD (JK) – Police in Montgomery County are warning residents about an increase in so-called distraction thefts, a scheme that often targets older adults in busy public places.
According to investigators, many of these incidents are happening in parking lots at shopping centers and grocery stores. In these cases, suspects approach victims in a friendly manner, sometimes asking for directions, offering compliments, or attempting to engage them in casual conversation. In some situations, they may even place jewelry on a person under the guise of giving a gift.
Police say these interactions are designed to distract victims while suspects use quick, deceptive movements to steal valuables the person is already wearing.
Authorities are urging residents to remain alert, especially when out in public. They recommend avoiding engagement with strangers who approach unexpectedly, keeping a close eye on personal belongings, and immediately removing any item placed on them by someone they do not know. Police also emphasize that no one should be allowed to touch or handle personal property.
Anyone who feels unsafe during an encounter is encouraged to call police immediately. Victims of distraction thefts are urged to report the incident by contacting the department’s non-emergency line at 301-279-8000. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Montgomery County Crime Solvers at 1-866-411-TIPS.
Officials note this is not the first time distraction-style thefts have been reported in the region. In a recent case, a Baltimore woman was among a group accused of using similar sleight-of-hand tactics to steal jewelry from several victims in Virginia.
Comments