Tewksbury Police Warn Residents About Theft Scam Targeting Elderly

TEWKSBURY, MA — Police are warning that thieves have been "robbing unsuspecting victims, often the elderly, of their jewelry."

Police noted that this has not occurred in Tewksbury recently but has happened in the past.

The crime alert applies to Lowell, Tyngsborough, Chelmsford, Dracut, Billerica, and Tewksbury.

Police described how the scam works:

"These individuals, a man and woman, are known to travel in a team and call victims over to their vehicle to speak to them in a friendly and engaging manner. They are known to offer and place fake jewelry on victims. While placing the fake jewelry, they will attempt to steal the jewelry belonging to and worn by the victims, sometimes in a violent nature, and then drive away.

"Do not approach them or their vehicle and do not engage in conversation with them, even if they seem friendly. If you are walking alone in these communities, especially if you are elderly, try to keep your jewelry hidden.

"If you are approached by someone suspicious or believe you see the suspects in the area, please call your local police department."