Jewelry Thieves Target Residents of Several Massachusetts Communities

Authorities in Massachusetts say jewelry thieves are targeting residents in several communities.

A man and woman operating as a team tend to call victims — often the elderly — over to their car and speak to them in a “friendly and engaging manner,” according to an alert from the Lowell Police Department. The alert came via the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office.

“They are known to offer and place fake jewelry on victims,” according to the alert. “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.”

The communities listed in the alert are Lowell, Tyngsborough, Chelmsford, Dracut, Billerica and Tewksbury.

Authorities warn: “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.”