RCMP say Hope targeted in distraction-style jewellery thefts

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HOPE — Hope RCMP believe the community was targeted by jewellery thieves last week. Police received two similar reports from people who were approached in similar situations.

First police received a report from a person who was approached in the parking lot of a grocery store on Wallace Street. A woman says she was approached by a man in a van. He began showing her jewellery and was joined by a woman who began placing jewellery on the victim. During the interaction, police believe a gold necklace was removed from the victim and taken. 

A few days later, police say another resident was approached at a gas station on Old Hope Princeton Way. The potential victim was approached by a man who placed a large amount of fake gold into his hands, asking for money in return. When the man refused the offer, he advised the stranger that he was contacting the police. At that point, the suspect fled in a van that was occupied by a woman and a child.