Windsor police say more victims have contacted police regarding a jewelry theft scam targeting elderly citizens.

Eight incidents have been reported to Windsor police from July 12 - 20. Officers say similar occurrences have been reported in Amherstburg and Leamington.

In six of the Windsor cases, bracelets and necklaces have been taken from the victims.

The suspects try to sell the victims jewelry. They place costume jewelry necklaces around the victims’ necks and then remove necklaces from the victims real jewelry without them knowing, say police.

Investigators believe the suspects may be using some type of cutting tool that enables them to quickly remove the jewelry from the unsuspecting victims. It is usually not till some time later, after the suspects have left, that the victims realize they are missing their jewelry.

The suspects are described as being very "touchy-feely,” often hugging or kissing the victims.

One suspect approached a victim and indicated that she needed water to take her medication. The victim provided her with water and the suspect thanked him for his kindness. She hugged him and told him she wanted him to have a necklace. The suspect was able to get a necklace off of the victim.

In another incident, a male and female suspect approached a couple and indicated that they needed money for a sick relative. They tried to sell the couple some gold from inside their vehicle.

In one incident, a victim purchased what he thought was real gold rings and necklaces. He handed over several hundred dollars and later learned that what he purchased was fake jewelry.

Police have received several descriptions of the suspects involved in this investigation.

The male suspect is described as Arabic with olive skin, 40 years old and 185-190 pounds. He has short black hair with a well-trimmed beard.

Police say there are two or three women involved as well. They have been described as being white, Pakistani, or Arabic. They are 40-50 years old wearing flashy scarves on their heads. All suspects speak with an accent that is described as being Spanish or Arabic.

Several vehicles have been reported as being involved, including a gold Toyota, a black Ford, a grey Ford, and a silver newer model Ford. Police are not able to confirm earlier reports that a cream coloured Escalade was involved in the Amherstburg incident.

Thefts have ranged from $500 to $2,500 in jewelry.

 

Police are asking anyone who may have information regarding these incidents to call (519)-255-6700 ex 4830 or anonymously at (519)-258-TIPS (8477).