Arrests in Organized Distraction Thefts

A week after Toronto Police held a news conference, urging the public to be vigilant because of the rise of distraction thefts, three women were arrested.

On September 7, members of 31 Division Major Crime Unit executed a search warrant in Scarborough, alleging the accused as responsible for several distraction thefts and one case of robbery in the city.

“Distraction thefts are deliberate and calculated crimes where perpetrators work to divert the victims’ attention to steal necklaces while they are wearing them, purses, wallets and other valuables,” said Superintendent Jack Gurr. “The targets are our vulnerable seniors making these offences especially concerning for us, both the community and your Toronto Police. 

“The perpetrators frequently work in groups and are organized moving across neighbourhoods and regions. Beyond the financial loss, distraction thefts cause fear, emotional harm and embarrassment. Many seniors do not report these offences due to the embarrassment feeling like they should have known better. They leave our victims feeling unsafe in places that are traditionally routine for them to be. Solving and preventing these crimes increase our sense of community safety and wellbeing.  We continue to work to disrupt these criminal networks.”

Police are alleging that the accused operated as a part of criminal organization, conducting distraction thefts in the Greater Toronto Area in the last two months.

It is also alleged they placed fake jewelry on their victims while stripping them of valuable gold necklaces and chains, targeted the vulnerable and elderly community and robbed a senior of their gold chain while they were walking down a street.

Florentina Alexandru, 44, Florentina Alexandru, 37, and Mirabela Lacatusu, 27, are facing a total of 14 charges, including robbery.

Chief Superintendent Mandeep Mann praised the officers for their diligent work.

“These crimes target our most vulnerable residents, and we will continue to aggressively investigate these incidents and pursue those responsible,” he said. “Our members work hard to ensure everyone feels safe in our city.”  

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS, online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your messages to CRIMES (274637) or leave a tip on Facebook.

Learn more about how you can prevent distraction thefts.