Media Release – June 16, 2026

Necklace stolen in distraction theft

The Guelph Police Service is investigating after a woman had a necklace stolen from around her neck in a parking lot.

Approximately 12:30 p.m. last Friday a man and woman were leaving a grocery store on Silvercreek Parkway North when they were approached by a male and female who asked for directions to a church.

During the interaction the woman got close to the female victim and was able to remove her gold necklace without the victim noticing.

The female suspect was described as possibly Arabic, 5’5” with a heavy build and wearing a hijab and printed clothing. The male was described as possibly Arabic, 6 feet and wearing a lined collared shirt. Both left the scene in a vehicle.

Police services across Ontario have seen an increase in these distraction-type thefts. Typically older adults are approached by individuals in a vehicle and engaged in conversation, during which a female passenger will attempt to initiate physical contact by hugging or attempting to place jewelry on the victim. Afterwards the victim realizes their jewelry has been stolen.

Offenders may appear friendly, well‑spoken, or apologetic, and often try to keep the interaction moving quickly to prevent the victim from reacting.

Offenders target moments when attention is divided such as: In grocery store or mall parking lots, on sidewalks or near store entrances, while entering or exiting vehicles, when carrying groceries or other items.

Residents should be extremely cautious when approached by individuals not known to them. Try to avoid physical contact and note any identifying information, such as physical descriptions and licence plates.  

Anyone with information about Friday’s incident is asked to call Constable Dallas Baker at 519-824-1212, ext. 7217, email dbaker@guelphpolice.ca, leave an anonymous message for Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous tip online at www.csgw.tips. (Occurrence number GU26038601)

Equipment stolen from construction site

The Guelph Police Service is investigating after approximately $9,500 in equipment was stolen from a downtown construction site.

On Monday morning a resident reported a break-in to a construction trailer near Wellington Street East and Neeve Street. The complainant reported being awakened by a noise just after 4 a.m. and seeing a truck parked next to the trailer within the construction site.

Investigation revealed a generator, two breakers and other equipment was missing. The two suspects were wearing all dark clothing and driving a white full-sized pickup with a black modified bed.

Anyone with information is asked to call Constable Ryan Lue at 519-824-1212, ext. 7395, email rlue@guelphpolice.ca, leave an anonymous message for Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous tip online at www.csgw.tips. (Occurrence number GU26039251)

Impaired charge after driving complaint

A Guelph woman is charged with impaired driving after police received a driving complaint Monday evening.

Approximately 8:45 p.m. police were informed of a vehicle being driven erratically near Victoria Road South and York Road. Officers located the vehicle in a south-end driveway and spoke to the driver as she walked towards a residence. She was unsteady on her feet and had a strong odour of alcohol on her breath.

The woman was arrested and transported to the police station, where tests confirmed she had more than the legal amount of alcohol in her system. A 66-year-old Guelph woman is charged with impaired driving. Her licence was suspended for 90 days and her vehicle was impounded for seven days. She will appear in court July 31.

The Guelph Police Service would like to encourage the public to be responsible if they choose to consume alcohol and cannabis. Please don’t drive if you are going to consume alcohol or cannabis, and please ensure that you plan ahead so that you have a safe ride home. Anyone who spots a suspected impaired driver is asked to immediately call 911. (Occurrence number GU26039408)

Total calls for service in the last 24 hours - 252