Couple Called 'Bonnie and Clyde' Arrested for Multi-State Jewelry Theft Spree
Romanian nationals, in the U.S. illegally, are accused of targeting elderly victims in at least 14 thefts across four states.
A Romanian couple, described by Homeland Security as "Bonnie and Clyde," has been arrested and taken into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody for allegedly conducting a jewelry theft spree across four states. Rudi Lacatusu, 28, and Mirabela Lacatusu, 26, are accused of stealing necklaces valued between $2,000 and $3,000 each from elderly victims.
DHS announced Tuesday that the couple is suspected of carrying out at least 14 such thefts in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Maryland. One incident, detailed by Nassau County police, involved a 73-year-old woman in Valley Stream, New York. A woman approached her under the pretense of asking for directions, then hugged her and placed necklaces around her neck. Shortly after, the victim realized her own necklace, worth approximately $2,000, had been stolen.
Investigators connected the suspects to similar incidents in Franklin Square and East Meadow. Both individuals face three counts of fourth-degree grand larceny. According to DHS, the suspects entered the U.S. illegally at an unspecified time and location.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated, "This ‘Bonnie and Clyde’ illegal alien couple from Romania has been charged with grand larceny after allegedly carrying out more than a dozen jewelry thefts across four states. Thanks to local partners in New York, these illegal aliens are in ICE custody and will be removed from our country."
Mullin also criticized New York's sanctuary policies, arguing they endanger citizens. "If it were up to sanctuary politicians like Governor Kathy Hochul, these criminals would be back on the streets to rob more Americans," he said.
The arrests follow "Operation Rotten Apple," an ICE operation conducted from late July through August, during which DHS reported arresting 2,197 individuals described as having criminal histories in New York.
Nassau County police issued a warning to residents about distraction scams that target the elderly. These scams can involve strangers offering gifts, asking for change, or feigning car trouble to divert attention while jewelry is stolen from victims. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to 911.