In Pasadena, California, a particularly skillful group of Romanian thieves has been captured, shedding light on a crime spree spanning across the state and into Nevada. This group of internationally organized criminals operated with alarming efficiency, stealing thousands of dollars' worth of high-value clothing items from various stores, including a Macy's store in Pasadena according to ABC7.
The Pasadena Police Department had been conducting an organized retail theft operation focused on the South Lake Shopping District. Detectives closely monitored these four individuals, who displayed a methodical approach to shoplifting. During their operation at the Macy's store on Lake Avenue, they were able to capture the group on video while they concealed items, hiding behind each other to avoid detection as ABC7 reported.
Police managed to apprehend three of the suspects while one fled in a vehicle and attempted to cause a crash. He was later caught and subsequently arrested. The suspects have been identified as Vasile Alberto Balan, Mihaela Simion, Cosmin Cismarv, and Sorin Marin Stefan. All four have been charged with grand theft, and Balan was also wanted on a felony warrant in Las Vegas for theft and counterfeiting per a KTLA article.
As it turns out, the depth of this criminal organization goes beyond California's borders. Detectives stated that these individuals are connected to more than 15 crimes across Orange and Los Angeles counties, and as far as Las Vegas in Clark County. Peculiarly, the group had previously been deported to Romania but successfully re-entered the United States according to KTLA.
This case has highlighted the increasingly global nature of organized crime. Det. Erick Urquieta reported that many criminal groups, including this one from Romania, often come to the United States on visas obtained through fraudulent means. Once in the country, they proceed to conduct their criminal activities with little restraint as stated by ABC7.
In the meantime, authorities urge anyone with information about this specific case or related crimes to contact the Pasadena Police Department at 626-744-4241 or report information anonymously to Crime Stoppers as reported by ABC7.
