Senior’s jewelry snatched in East Vancouver, police say

A Vancouver Police Department patch is seen in Ottawa, on Sunday, Sept. 29, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Spencer Colby

A woman has been arrested and charged after a senior had her jewelry ripped off in East Vancouver last week, according to police.

The Vancouver Police Department says a 72-year-old woman was standing near the intersection of Commercial Street and 41^st Avenue around 9:30 a.m. Friday, when three people approached her and attempted a so-called “distraction theft” by offering a gift in exchange for her necklace.

“When the suspicious senior recognized the ruse, a female suspect allegedly yanked the victim’s necklace off and fled with the two other people in a rental vehicle,” the department wrote in a statement Tuesday.

The victim called 911 to report the incident and the VPD says officers later found the suspect vehicle at Main Street and 12^th Avenue, and seized “many” pieces of jewelry and cash.

“We know organized theft rings are behind many of these types of incidents,” Sgt. Adam Donaldson said, in the statement. “Friday’s arrest is excellent news, but also a reminder for the community to be alert and to help seniors be aware of how they can protect themselves.”

Ontario resident Amalia Stoian now faces one charge of robbery.

To prevent distraction thefts, the VPD advised people to keep their valuables concealed, not let strangers enter their personal space, and to draw attention from bystanders if targeted.