Two People Arrested for Stealing from an Elderly Resident in Chino
Authorities Arrest Two in Chino Distraction Theft Case
Chino police have apprehended two individuals in connection with a distraction theft incident targeting an elderly woman, according to an announcement made on Monday.
The incident occurred while the victim was walking from a parking lot to a nearby business. Police report that a white Jeep SUV stopped in front of her. A woman exited the vehicle, approached the victim while offering flowers, and then placed a fake chain around her neck. In a swift motion, the suspect removed the elderly woman’s genuine jewelry.
During this exchange, the victim fell and sustained injuries after being pushed. The Chino Police Department did not disclose the date when the alleged theft took place.
Following an investigation, authorities located the suspects—38-year-old Cezar Vasile and 38-year-old Mirabela Ene—in Anaheim and recovered evidence from the scene. Both individuals have been arrested and booked for robbery.
Officials believe that the suspects may be connected to a wider criminal network with potential additional victims. Given the circumstances, police are urging the public, particularly elderly individuals, to remain vigilant.
They caution residents to be wary of strangers offering gifts such as flowers or jewelry, as these can be tactics used in distraction thefts. Other methods employed by thieves may involve asking for directions, initiating a prayer together, or attempting to engage in physical contact to divert attention while accomplices steal personal belongings.
