LAURENS, S.C. (WSPA) — Two women, Lidia Varga and Iasmina Rostas, both from Romania, have been arrested for allegedly using children in a complex fraud operation.
The arrests occurred on Friday while Laurens Police were holding a fundraiser at a local Walmart. Officers observed a commotion as people fled the store, prompting an investigation. Upon questioning, they found Varga and Rostas accompanied by an infant and an 11-year-old boy. A search of their vehicle revealed nearly $3,500 in small bills, along with numerous gift cards and baby formula.
Chief Keith Grounsell indicated that the women may be part of a “multi-state fraud operation,” claiming they traveled to various Walmarts and Targets. They solicited money from the public, asserting their baby was starving and they couldn’t afford necessities. Many good Samaritans offered assistance, purchasing items for them, which the women then returned for cash or gift cards.
Investigators noted receipts in their car indicating similar scams across Virginia, North Carolina, Florida, New Jersey, and New Hampshire. “It’s a Romanian ‘sleight of hand scam,’” Grounsell explained.
The use of children in their scheme was particularly troubling, as the women exploited the kids to evoke sympathy. Reports suggest they changed the children involved in the operation frequently.
Both women face several charges, including obtaining goods under false pretenses and cruelty to children. The children have been placed in the custody of the Department of Social Services.
Laurens Police are collaborating with SLED investigators and the Department of Homeland Security to uncover the full extent of the scam, believing that additional individuals may be involved. “These specific ladies’ role was to return items for cash and exploit the empathy of others,” Grounsell added, emphasizing that the funds were likely not benefiting the children or staying locally.