Two people arrested for distraction theft targeting an elderly person in Chino

Authorities have arrested two people who are linked to a distraction theft targeting an elderly victim in Chino, police announced Monday.

The Chino Police Department said the elderly woman was walking from a parking lot toward a business when a white Jeep SUV pulled up in front of her.

A woman with a head covering came out of the car and offered the elderly victim flowers. Then, the female suspect placed a fake chain around her victim’s neck before quickly removing the elderly woman’s real jewelry. 

During the interaction, the victim fell and became injured after being pushed. 

The Chino Police Department did not say when the alleged theft occurred. 

Chino detectives ended up locating the suspects in Anaheim and found evidence from the alleged crime. The suspects, 38-year-old Cezar Vasile and 38-year-old Mirabela Ene, were arrested and booked for robbery, police said. 

Authorities believe the two suspects may be part of a larger criminal enterprise with additional victims. 

Police urged people, especially elderly people, to be on the lookout for strangers offering gifts such as flowers and jewelry.

Other tactics of distraction thefts include asking to pray together, asking for directions or trying to hug or physically touch. While their target is distracted, another person would try to take the victim’s wallet, purse or jewelry, police said.