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Pair arrested after seniors targeted in distraction thefts

York Regional Police is warning citizens not to be duped by ruse that begins with being asked directions
NewmarketToday Staff

NEWS RELEASE
YORK REGIONAL POLICE
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York Regional Police would like to remind citizens to be cautious when engaged by strangers in public places following an investigation and charges laid against two people after a number of recent distraction thefts in the City of Vaughan.

In May 2022, officers received multiple reports of theft occurring at residential locations in Vaughan. The majority of the incidents have targeted elderly and vulnerable victims who were walking outside their residences between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. The suspects, a male driver and a female passenger, approach the victims and ask for directions. Once directions are given, the suspects tell the victim they want to give them a gift, which is a fake gold chain. The female suspect will hug the victim and swap the fake gold chain for the real jewelry worn by the victim.

Through the investigation, officers identified the suspects and they are now facing charges. The investigation is ongoing. York Regional Police is releasing photos of the accused parties and are urging any additional victims of this type of theft to please come forward.

CHARGED: 

  • Brincoveanu Constantin, 38, of Toronto 
  • Simona Tudorache, 36, of Toronto

CHARGES: 

  • Theft Under $5,000 x3 
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime

York Regional Police is reminding residents to be cautious and protect themselves from distraction thefts by following these tips:

  • Always be alert and be aware of the actions people around you 
  • Keep your valuables in safe and secure locations that would be difficult for someone else to access without your knowledge 
  • Call police immediately if you witness any suspicious people or activity 
  • Criminals are opportunists. Don’t give them the opportunity to make you a victim of crime

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext.7441, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-tips, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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