Toronto

Toronto police warn about distraction theft after pair arrested

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Suspects in a distraction theft. (Toronto Police)

Toronto police are warning the public about distraction theft after a man and a woman were arrested following an incident allegedly involving a grandmother and her grandchild.

Police say that on May 18, an elderly woman and her grandchild were walking in the area of Falstaff Avenue and Culford Road.

They say a male suspect lured the child towards a van, while a female suspect started a conversation with the elderly woman. Police say the female suspect distracted the elderly victim while the male suspect distracted the minor and stole their jewelry.

Both suspects then fled the area.

Police say that the suspects have been arrested and charged. Constantin Porumbita, 41, and Bianca Mitran, 41, both of Toronto, each face a robbery charge and participating in/contributing to criminal organization.

Porumbita is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, July 30 and Mitran is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, July 20.

Investigators say there are likely more victims and have shared photos of the suspects.