Scam Arrests Lead to Recovery of Money
December 1, 2023 - Ventura County Sheriff's Office officials report that on November 24, 2023, deputies from the Ojai Patrol Station arrested 
Constantin Miclescu and Laura Stan for various charges including grand theft and conspiracy to commit a crime. Deputies determined Stan and Miclescu worked together to distract and confuse an elderly victim. During the distraction, Stan removed the victim’s wallet from his person and took several hundred dollars. Thanks to the quick actions of the victim, patrol deputies and detectives were able to recover and return the victim’s money.
This type of scam is commonly referred to a “distraction theft.” The key to this crime is diversion and distractions. Two or more subjects will work together to divert the victim’s attention while other members of the group take the victim’s valuables, including wallet, purse, or jewelry. The theft is often not discovered until the suspects are gone.
The Ojai Detective Bureau would like to remind the public to exercise general awareness to avoid being victimized. Be wary of any situations where subject(s) are aggressively soliciting financial donations or offering jewelry. It is not uncommon for scammers to manipulate and prey on the public’s generosity and religious beliefs during the holiday season.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office relies on community partnerships to achieve our mission to, “…respond to public concerns in a manner which is fair, unbiased, lawful, and promotes neighborhoods free from crime.” Together we can make a difference.
Scam Arrests Lead to Recovery of Money
Nature of Incident: Scam Arrests Lead to Recovery of Money
Report Number: 23-150129
Location: 690 N. Ventura Avenue, Oak View
Date & Time: November 24, 2023 @ 10:03 AM
Unit(s) Responsible: Ojai Patrol Station/Ojai Detective Bureau
|
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent |
City of Residence |
Age |
|
(A-1) Constantin Miclescu |
Coventry, England |
34 |
Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime. The caller may remain anonymous. The call is not recorded. Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).
Source: Ventura County Sheriff's Office
