Chino police say a sweet gesture turned into a painful robbery for one elderly woman, after a pair of suspected thieves used a distraction trick to steal her jewelry. Officers report that the suspects handed the woman flowers, slipped a fake necklace around her neck, then made off with her real chain. In the struggle, the woman was pushed, fell, and suffered injuries.
The Chino Police Department identified the suspects as 38-year-old Cezar Vasile and 38-year-old Mirabela Ene, who were both booked on robbery charges, according to NBC Los Angeles. Investigators say the duo pulled up in a white Jeep SUV in front of the victim before the theft. Detectives later tracked them to Anaheim, where they recovered evidence they believe is tied to the incident.
Wider Pattern Across Southern California
Police say this is not an isolated con. Across Southern California, law enforcement agencies have been warning about similar distraction-theft schemes that tend to zero in on older adults and hop from county to county. The Orange County Sheriff's Department recently announced arrests tied to a multi-county distraction-theft investigation and cautioned that these traveling crews often leave behind victims who never report the crime, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department.
How The Chino Theft Unfolded
In the Chino case, police say a woman suspect walked up to the victim, offered her flowers, and then placed a fake chain around her neck. As that was happening, an accomplice allegedly moved in to distract the victim, giving the woman enough time to remove the real jewelry. Officers say the victim was then pushed to the ground and injured. Investigators warn that similar thieves may try other tactics, including asking to pray together, requesting directions, or going in for an unsolicited hug, according to NBC Los Angeles.
Police Advice And Next Steps
Detectives say quick reporting is key to stopping these roving theft crews and possibly linking together cases across cities and counties. They urge residents, especially older adults, to turn down unexpected offers of gifts, physical contact, or help from strangers. Authorities recommend calling local police right away if you spot suspicious behavior and using anonymous tip lines when needed. The Orange County Sheriff's guidance for residents and victims echoes those same precautions, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department.
