A woman approached a 91-year-old man outside a California Costco and offered to help load his groceries and pray for him, according to deputies. During the encounter, she allegedly removed a ring from his finger without his knowledge or permission.
The incident occurred November 9, 2026, at the Costco on Claribel Road in Riverbank. Riverbank Police Services deputies responded to a reported robbery and spoke with the man about the encounter.
Detectives traced a black Mazda to a home in nearby Modesto, where a search led to four arrests. The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office described the investigation in a November 13 announcement and video.
Deputies found suspected counterfeit jewelry and various clothing items during the residential search. The victim’s ring was not recovered, according to the sheriff’s account.
A Black Mazda Led Detectives to a Modesto Home
After the encounter, the woman walked away, entered the Mazda and left the shopping center, deputies said. Investigators also reported attempts to approach multiple shoppers in the parking lot.
Detectives located the vehicle parked in the driveway of a Modesto residence and obtained a search warrant. Several people were detained when investigators searched the property, according to the department’s account.
One woman tried to evade deputies by jumping over fences during the operation. Deputies caught her, the department said.
Three Suspects Had Earlier Arrests in Sacramento County
Three people were arrested on suspicion of grand theft from a person, theft or financial abuse of an elderly or dependent adult, conspiracy, and resisting, delaying or obstructing a peace officer. The sheriff’s statement lists California Penal Code sections 487(c), 368(d), 182(a)(1) and 148(a)(1).
The fourth person, a woman, was arrested on the resisting, delaying or obstructing allegation alone. These are the arrest allegations reported by the department; all four are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
Investigators also learned that three of the people arrested had been taken into custody in Sacramento County on October 31 for similar offenses, according to the sheriff’s statement, reproduced by Sierra Sun Times. The department said courts had released those individuals before the Riverbank incident.
Be Cautious When a Stranger Tries to Handle Your Jewelry
Riverbank Police Services warned older adults and their families that unsolicited offers of help, prayer or other services can be used to distract someone while taking personal property. Decline unwanted touching or attempts to handle your jewelry, and step away if someone persists.
If jewelry disappears after an encounter, notify store security and local police promptly. Note the approximate time, the person’s description and any vehicle details to help investigators identify relevant surveillance footage. The department encouraged anyone who believes they experienced a similar incident to contact their local law enforcement agency.
