5 suspects sought after elderly victims targeted in ATM distraction thefts

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Police are asking the public to be on alert for strangers while using ATMs as they try to track down five people wanted in a distraction theft investigation.

Toronto Police said they received five reports of distraction theft and fraud in the GTA between Oct. 9, 2024, and Feb. 28. In each case, two to four suspects approached an elderly victim using an ATM and stole the victim’s bank card while they were distracted.

The thieves then used the stolen card to withdraw money from the victim’s bank account.

The first suspect is a man, 30 to 45 years old, between 5-foot-10 and 6-foot-2, with a medium build, dark hair and a full beard.

The second suspect is a man, 35 to 50 years old, between 5-foot-8 and 5-foot-10, with a medium build, dark hair and a beard.

The third suspect is a man, 30 to 45 years old, between 5-foot-7 and 5-foot-10, with a medium build, dark hair and a goatee.

The fourth suspect is a woman, 30 to 45 years old, between 5-foot-2 and 5-foot-8, with a medium build.

The fifth suspect is a woman, 30 to 50 years old, between 5-foot-5 and 5-foot-8, with a heavy build and long brown hair.

Police advise that when using an ATM or making a purchase, do not let anyone distract you during the transaction; be aware of other people around you; avoid using an ATM if you see suspicious people nearby; and always shield your PIN.

They also said to avoid using an ATM if suspicious devices are visible or there are signs of tampering.

Anyone with information about the investigation can contact police at 416-808-5500 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-8477 or 222tips.com.

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