The scam
It’s giving major villain vibes. A couple identified as Rudi Lacatusu, 28, and Mirabela Lacatusu, 26, are facing grand larceny charges after allegedly running a distraction scam that spanned four states: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Maryland.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is calling the Romanian nationals the "Bonnie and Clyde" of jewelry theft. Their MO was lowkey predatory: they would approach elderly victims with seemingly innocent requests, like asking for directions, before stepping out of their vehicle to hug the victim or place fake jewelry around their neck. While the victim was distracted, the pair would swipe their real necklaces. In one instance on October 5 in Valley Stream, New York, a 73-year-old woman lost a $2,000 necklace after helping the duo find a local store.
What this means for you
Authorities are warning everyone to stay alert. Real talk: if a stranger is acting overly friendly in a parking lot or outside your home, don't let your guard down. Police are specifically flagging distraction scams that involve people asking for directions, requesting to pray, or needing help with a flat tire. If you feel like something is off, say less and just call 911.
The fallout
The suspects are currently in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin used the arrest to blast New York Governor Kathy Hochul, claiming that state sanctuary policies enable criminal activity. This follows a wider ICE initiative called Operation Rotten Apple, which recently resulted in over 2,000 arrests across New York.
If you think you’ve been targeted in a similar theft, Nassau County Crime Stoppers is asking you to reach out at 1-800-244-TIPS.
