Husband and wife plead guilty to distraction thefts at jewelry shops

A lengthy probe began in December 2025 when the VPD’s retail crime task force noticed a pattern of “sophisticated” distraction thefts throughout the city. Police identified 12 incidents between August 2025 and February 2026 believed to be connected to or committed by the suspects. “These incidents spanned communities from West Vancouver to Revelstoke, with an additional offence in Calgary,” said police in a statement. “A total of more than $90,000 in jewelry was taken.” Two suspects were identified and later located in Chilliwack and arrested in early March. On Thursday, VPD announced husband and wife Adam and Maria Caldarar pleaded guilty to charges of theft over $5,000 and theft under $5,000, linked to incidents in Vancouver, West Vancouver and North Vancouver. The investigation also involved police forces in Kamloops, Kelowna, Salmon Arm, Hope and Revelstoke, where additional charges. may be recommended.

The Vancouver Police Department says it extends its appreciation to the jewelry retail community and all partnering police agencies for their co-operation and support in bringing this province‑wide “crime spree to an end.” The couple remains in custody.