Nassau police arrest 2 in alleged jewelry theft scam; Residents urged to stay alert
According to police, the two suspects are connected to thefts reported in Valley Stream, East Meadow and Franklin Square.
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Nassau County police have arrested two Romanian nationals accused of targeting residents in a theft scheme in which suspects allegedly ask for directions, initiate physical contact and then steal jewelry from unsuspecting victims.
According to police, the two suspects are connected to thefts reported in Valley Stream, East Meadow and Franklin Square. Investigators said the pair may be linked to 14 cases across New York, New Jersey and Maryland.
“We tracked them all over. We actually went down to Maryland and did some surveillance on them in Maryland,” Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder said.
Police said the scam typically begins when a stranger approaches someone for directions. After receiving help, the suspect may offer a hug or another gesture of gratitude. During that interaction, investigators say, the victim’s necklace or other jewelry is removed without their knowledge.
Authorities believe there may be additional victims and warn that similar crews may still be operating in the area.
One Floral Park woman previously described her experience after being approached by someone asking for directions. She said the person hugged her before leaving, and she later discovered her necklace was missing.
“I felt very sad after they moved away. I just didn’t feel good about the meeting,” said Bridget Raleigh of Floral Park.
News 12's Jonathan Gordon spoke to Nassau Police Commissioner about the scams.
The scam has also been reported in neighboring communities.
In Lynbrook, police said a woman had a necklace stolen directly from her neck after someone asked for directions to a grocery store. In a separate incident, a man fled after a suspect allegedly attempted to take his jewelry.
“Be wary of anyone who’s going to approach you and ask for directions, but more importantly, be wary about physical contact and letting them invade your space,” said Lynbrook Police Chief Brian Paladino. “Don’t allow that to happen.”
The two suspects arrested by Nassau police are Mirabela Lacatusu, 26, and Rudi Lacatusu, 28, both of 3 Lisa Road, Scarborough, Ontario. They have been charged with grand larceny.
Police said the pair was also turned over to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement because they were allegedly in the country illegally.
