THE Vancouver Police Department (VPD) is warning seniors in the city to be aware of distraction thieves after 11 incidents in June and July. “These are criminals who think nothing of targeting elderly victims and stealing their valuable family heirlooms,” said Sgt. As of July 16, 35 distraction thefts have been reported in Vancouver in 2026. In 2025, 158 distraction thefts were reported with total losses of $364,000. Report immediately: Call 911 right away if you are the victim or witness a distraction theft.