Toronto police apprehended three women accused of participating in a string of distraction thefts and robberies that targeted elderly and vulnerable residents throughout the city. The suspects, believed to have operated as a coordinated criminal group, employed distraction tactics to snatch jewelry and valuables from unsuspecting victims between July and early September 2025. These arrests come at a time of heightened concern due to a surge in similar crimes, particularly impacting seniors in Toronto.
On September 7, a search warrant was executed, leading to the apprehension of three Toronto residents: Florentina Alexandru, 44, Mirabela Lacatusu, 27, and another individual also named Florentina Alexandru, aged 37. The women are accused of stealing jewelry worth thousands of dollars. Charges against them include multiple counts of theft over $5,000, theft under $5,000, possession of proceeds obtained by crime over $5,000, possession of proceeds obtained by crime under $5,000, and participation in a criminal organization.
Florentina Alexandru and Mirabela Lacatusu made a court appearance on Monday, while the younger Florentina Alexandru was set to appear in court on Tuesday. These arrests follow a recent report highlighting a concerning increase in distraction thefts across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Toronto law enforcement officials disclosed during a recent press briefing that suspects often approach elderly individuals in public places, feigning assistance or conversation before pilfering jewelry and other personal belongings. Some victims only realize they have been robbed much later, leaving them shocked.
Toronto police suspect there may be more victims and have shared images of the three women to encourage the public to come forward with any pertinent information.