Hamilton police search for ‘distraction theft team’

Two men and a woman are wanted by police in connection with a distraction theft scheme.

Police say the trio is “very active in the Hamilton area” and investigators are hoping members of the public can help identify them.

An investigation was launched on October 13 after a woman’s wallet was stolen from her purse and then used at variety of banks in the city.

“The victim goes up to pay for the merchandise their about to purchase when they take out their bank card to use the machine, one of the suspects is right behind viewing it over her shoulder so they can get the pin number.” Staff Sgt. Matt Cavanaugh, Hamilton police.

That’s just the start. Afterwards the woman was leaving the Metro grocery store at 1900 King St. East around 2 p.m. when a man struck up a conversation with her. Another man approached the woman from behind and stole her wallet.

Police say before the victim knows her wallet is gone they are taking out money at a bank or cheque cashing business.

Police say the thieves have struck a total of 10 times in Hamilton, Kitchener, Waterloo and even in Saskatoon. They have already stolen more than $10 000 and their victims are all women over the age of 60.

Police released new photos of two suspects and a woman who is also accused of playing a role in the thefts.

If you have any information that you believe could assist Police with the investigation of this crime or you can help to identify the suspects, you are asked to contact the Division Two Detective’s Office by calling 905-546-2907.