An immigrant couple described by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as a “Bonnie and Clyde” duo has been accused of a jewelry theft spree spanning four states, resulting in at least 14 alleged incidents. Rudi Lacatusu, 28, and Mirabela Lacatusu, 26, both Romanian nationals, are now in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.
The pair allegedly targeted elderly victims, stealing necklaces valued between $2,000 and $3,000 each. The thefts occurred across New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Maryland.
One alleged incident on Long Island involved a 73-year-old woman who was approached outside her home on October 5 by a couple in a gold Mitsubishi. The female passenger reportedly asked for directions, and after receiving assistance, asked for a hug, during which time the victim’s necklace was allegedly stolen. The suspects are also linked to similar thefts in Franklin Square and East Meadow, New York, where each faces three counts of fourth-degree grand larceny.
DHS stated that Nassau County authorities transferred the couple to ICE custody after their arrests. Both are said to have entered the U.S. illegally at an unspecified time and location.
Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin criticized New York's sanctuary policies, suggesting they put Americans at risk. "If it were up to sanctuary politicians like Governor Kathy Hochul, these criminals would be back on the streets to rob more Americans," Mullin said in a statement, calling New York a "hotbed of illegal alien crime" under Hochul.
DHS cited the arrests as further evidence of the "disastrous consequences" of sanctuary policies extending beyond state borders, referencing a recent ICE operation called "Operation Rotten Apple." This operation, conducted from late July to late August, resulted in the arrest of 2,197 individuals in New York, including those accused of murder, rape, and other violent crimes.
Nassau County police had issued appearance tickets for the Lacatusus to appear in court on October 20. The exact date of their transfer to ICE custody was not specified by DHS.
Authorities have issued warnings to residents, particularly the elderly, about distraction scams that involve strangers offering gifts, asking for help, or engaging in conversations to divert attention while jewelry is stolen. Residents are urged to report suspicious activity to 911 and to contact Nassau County Crime Stoppers for assistance if targeted.