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Elderly Barrie man falls victim to distraction theft

Incident took place in a parking lot on Holland Street West, Bradford
2015-12-30 South Simcoe Police KA 02
File photo. Kenneth Armstrong/Village Media

NEWS RELEASE
SOUTH SIMCOE POLICE
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A 76-year-old Barrie man reports he was the victim of a distraction theft in Bradford.

The incident occurred on Saturday, April 27, 2019 around 12:30 p.m. in the parking lot of retail store a on Holland Street West. As a result, we would like to remind residents to be vigilant. Distraction theft can occur during a variety of interactions including the suspect "finding" money on the ground and attempting to return it to the victim's wallet or a suspect will ask for help with directions while the victim is putting groceries in their vehicle. A second suspect will then steal the victim's debit or credit card.

Here are some tips to help you protect yourself:
    •    Always cover the keypad when entering a credit or debit card PIN
    •    Do not leave purses or wallets in vehicles while putting groceries away
    •    Do not reveal your wallet or purse in a parking lot when speaking with a stranger
    •    If you witness any suspicious people or activity, contact police immediately

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