Clifton police warning residents of switcheroo jewelry theft scam
CLIFTON, New Jersey (WABC) -- Police in New Jersey are warning residents about a string of distraction-style jewelry thefts.
Three thefts have been reported over the past six weeks in Clifton.
One person fell victim to the scam around the 600 block of Van Houten Avenue. Another fell victim along Main Avenue near Sylvan Avenue, and a third was just up the street near Bridewell Place.
Each time, the thieves would either ask for directions or start a casual, friendly conversation with their victims.
"When directions were provided in two of the cases, the suspect offered a necklace to the victim, but while pretending to fasten the gifted necklace around the victim's neck, they were actually removing a necklace that the victim was wearing," Clifton Police said in a statement.
Police added that in the third theft, the suspect turned the conversation to the topic of jewelry and then insisted that the victim try on a unique necklace.
Without permission, they apparently pretended to fasten a necklace around the victim's neck while removing the victim's own necklace.
"We all have kindness in our hearts, and we want to be helpful but we also have to maintain our safety and take proper precautions," said Robert Anderson of the Clifton Police Department.
There was apparently an attempt at Jubilee Park as well, where one woman said she does stay focused on safety.
"I'm always watching myself when I'm walking, looking behind me, around me, because you just never know," said Clifton resident Cheryl Lawinski. "Anybody could step up behind you. And like you said, this person that you're telling me could actually come up, see my cross and want to touch me, and you would just never know."
Clifton police have posted warnings on its Facebook page about this scam, urging people to be vigilant about strangers approaching you.
"We urge our residents and visitors to remain vigilant and maintain personal space from strangers, no matter how friendly they may seem," Clifton police said.
The thefts remain under investigation.
----------
* Get Eyewitness News Delivered
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News
Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.
