Two Toronto women have been charged in connection with a distraction theft and robbery that occurred in an Etobicoke parking lot in February. The incident, which involved a female victim being attacked in her vehicle, has prompted police to issue a warning to the public about the increasing prevalence of such crimes.
Details of the Incident
According to Toronto Police, the victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was sitting in her vehicle in a parking lot near Woodbine Downs and Finch Avenue on February 26. The two accused approached her, allegedly attempting to distract her by offering counterfeit jewelry and a fake iPhone while simultaneously removing her real jewelry. Police stated that the suspects "forcefully removed several gold chains from the victim's neck," resulting in minor injuries to the victim.
Arrests and Charges
Through investigation, the suspects were identified and arrested. On May 31, officers arrested Patricia Ghivea, 20, of Toronto, charging her with robbery with violence, conspiracy to commit a summary offence, and assault of a peace officer. On June 2, Loredana Gardian, 23, also of Toronto, was arrested and charged with robbery with violence and conspiracy to commit a summary offence. Police believe there may be additional similar incidents involving the accused, and the investigation is ongoing.
Broader Implications
Toronto Police Superintendent Ron Taverner noted that the alleged activities were not confined to Toronto but extended to Halton Region, Hamilton, Montreal, and potentially other jurisdictions. "Police are in the process of identifying links between cases and prosecuting those involved in these types of crimes, which deliberately target vulnerable members of the community," Taverner said.
Etobicoke North Councillor Vincent Crisanti highlighted that distraction thefts, particularly targeting seniors, have increased in his ward. "We do have a large, vulnerable senior population in and around this area," Crisanti said. "Awareness is key. I am hoping we can provide that awareness and help seniors better protect themselves." He plans to discuss the situation at the Thistletown Community Centre next week.
Safety Tips from Police
The unit commander of 23 Division offered suggestions on how to stay safe in public spaces:
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and parking lots.
- Keep purses, backpacks, and other bags zipped and secured.
- Be cautious when approached by strangers, particularly if they are overly friendly, persistent, or attempting to place items on or in your hands.
- Never leave your phone, wallet, or bags unattended in a public place, such as hung over a chair in a restaurant.
- Place your phone in your front pocket rather than your back pocket to deter pickpockets.
Police distinguish between theft and robbery based on the level of violence. "If there is a level of violence, we consider that a robbery," Taverner explained. "If they are ripping chains off people or pushing or shoving them, that is robbery."
Context of Crime Tourism
This incident comes amid recent spikes in crime tourism, where suspects enter the country to commit crimes. On June 5, as part of 'Project Jetsetter,' Durham Regional Police arrested 46 people in a related investigation. However, Taverner noted that the Etobicoke case does not appear to be linked to crime tourism, as the accused are Canadian citizens.
