"$56"-*5 4r/&84 OPP WARNS PUBLIC ABOUT DISTRACTION THEFTS ACROSS THE REGION
GABRIELLE VINETTE gabrielle.vinette@eap.on.ca
jewelry. In other situations, individuals claim to need assistance or money and attempt to sell or trade expensive-looking jewelry that ultimately proves to be counterfeit. Some suspects use emotional stories, such as needing help for a family member, to pressure victims into handing over money or valuables. The OPP notes that these interactions are designed to create confusion, urgency, or a sense of obligation. Safety Tips The OPP encourages residents to stay aware of your surroundings, even during rou- tine activities, be cautious when approached by strangers, particularly those entering your personal space, avoid accepting unsolicited gifts or offers involving jewelry, trust your instincts and leave immediately if a situation feels uncomfortable, keep valuables secure and limit how much jewelry you wear in public, and consider carrying cash separately from your wallet or purse. If you believe you are being targeted, attract attention by making noise and call 9-1-1. Report Suspicious Activity Anyone who has been approached in a suspicious manner or believes they have been the victim of a distraction theft is encouraged to contact police immediately. Prompt repor- ting can assist investigators and help prevent further incidents. Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Suspected frauds and scams can also be reported to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding residents to remain vigilant following reports of distraction thefts occurring in communities across the region. According to police, distraction thefts involve suspects using deception and quick actions to steal valuables, most commonly jewelry, without victims immediately realizing what has happened. These incidents often occur within seconds and can take place in public spaces, parking lots, or even on private property. 8IJMFTFOJPSTBSFGSFRVFOUMZUBSHFUFE QPMJDF stress that anyone can become a victim. How These Thefts Occur Police say suspects often work in pairs or groups and rely on distraction, manipulation, and close physical proximity to carry out the theft. They may present themselves as friendly, helpful, or in distress in an effort to lower a victim’s guard. In some cases, a stranger may start a conversation before moving into a person’s personal space, sometimes attempting physi- cal contact such as touching hands, wrists, or offering a hug. Victims often discover afterward that jewelry has been removed. Other incidents involve suspects compli- menting a victim’s jewelry and offering what they claim is a more valuable item in exchange. The item is later found to have little or no value. Police also report cases where suspects offer gifts, such as necklaces, and place them on the victim while secretly removing genuine
VALORISER LES RÉUSSITES DES ÉLÈVES
Méritas à l’ESCRH – L’École secondaire catholique régionale de Hawkesbury a tenu récemment son Gala des pattes d’Or. Soirée au cours de laquelle on a souligné l’excellence au niveau académique, sportif et culturel. Sur la photo, on reconnaît neuf des 11 récipiendaires principaux : (1re rangée) Cooper Myre, Tommy Hall et Louis-Philippe Villeneuve. (2e rangée) Juliette Legault, Livia Joanisse-Boudrias, Camélya-Desmarais Labonté, Maélie Proulx, Annabelle Mantha, Emily Konrad. Absentes au moment où la photo a été prise : Olivia Gibeau et Sarah Meloche. (Photo fournie)
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