Thefts of Purses from Hotels across Halton Region

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) advises members of the public of a series of purse thefts from hotels across the Halton Region.

Since mid-June, suspect(s) have been attending hotel restaurants during the breakfast hour and stealing purses left on chairs while patrons are distracted and/or grabbing food. Many of the victims are females visiting from other countries. As such, they are often carrying passports, jewelry and large sums in cash needed for travel.

In one incident in Oakville, it was reported that suspects stole a purse containing approximately $25,000.00 worth of jewelry and $8,000.00 in cash. Police believe that this large amount has motivated those responsible to target additional hotels. Eight similar thefts have occurred in Halton since July 1.

Residents are reminded that anyone can become a victim of a crime of opportunity and the best safeguard is to remain vigilant of your surroundings and keep valuables directly on your person at all times. Additional personal safety tips are available at:

https://www.haltonpolice.ca/services/safetysecurity/index.php

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact Detective Tom Hockney at 905-825-4747 ext. 2491 (Milton and Halton Hills), Detective Mick Leighton at 905-825-4747 ext. 2218 (Oakville), or Detective Phil Vandenbeukel at 905-825-4747 ext. 2343 (Burlington). Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.com, or by texting Tip201″ with your message to 274637 (crimes).”

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