Two people linked to distraction thefts across Canada have been arrested, and a Barrie senior has been reunited with a stolen necklace and wedding ring.
Winnipeg Police took a 27-year-old man and a 26-year-old woman from Scarborough into custody in July as part of an investigation into distraction thefts.
The investigation continued with Windsor Police, where officers recovered a significant quantity of jewelry while executing a search warrant.
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Investigators determined the pair had travelled across the country, carrying out thefts in various locations.
Police say the suspects were in Barrie between June 28 and 30. Their descriptions and the vehicle they were using matched a distraction theft reported on June 28 at a home on Lay Street.
A 75-year-old man was standing in his driveway when a late-model, dark-coloured SUV pulled up with a man driving and a woman in the passenger seat.
Police say the woman, who was described as having gold teeth, struck up a brief conversation with the senior. She offered him a necklace and, while placing it around his neck, stole the gold necklace he was wearing.
The victim's necklace had his wedding ring attached. He didn't realize it had been stolen until the suspects drove away.
The necklace and wedding ring were later found among the jewelry recovered by investigators.
On October 11, Barrie Police returned the items to the victim.
Police believe there may be more victims. Anyone who thinks they or someone they know may have been targeted by the suspects is asked to contact the lead investigator by email at 7430@barriepolice.ca.
