TORONTO — Three Toronto women have been arrested and charged in connection with what police describe as a “criminal organization” behind a string of distraction thefts, many of which targeted elderly individuals.
According to Toronto Police, the group operated between June and September, using tactics to distract victims while stealing from them — often without their immediate awareness. Jewelry was the primary target, though authorities declined to estimate the total value of the stolen items.
The arrests follow a recent press conference in which police expressed concern over an “alarming” rise in distraction thefts across the city. At that time, officials reported 375 incidents, prompting a warning to the public.
Durham Police have also noted a “concerning trend” of similar thefts occurring in their region, suggesting a wider pattern of coordinated criminal activity.
The three individuals arrested are:
Florentina Alexandru, 44
Florentina Alexandru, 37 (same name, different date of birth)
Mirabela Lacatusu, 27
All three suspects were taken into custody on September 7 and are now facing:
Three counts of theft over $5,000
Four additional theft-related charges
Four charges related to participation in a criminal organization
Police confirmed in a phone call that the two suspects named Florentina Alexandru are separate individuals.
Authorities believe there may be more victims who have not yet come forward. Anyone who may have been affected is urged to contact Toronto Police.
