Three charged over distraction thefts in Hertfordshire

Elderly people were reportedly targeted

Author: Grace McGachyPublished 9th Apr 2025

Three people have been charged in connection with a series of distraction thefts across Hertfordshire.

It follows reports of elderly people being observed using bank cards at tills and were then followed out of the store.

The victims were then distracted by one person, whilst an accomplice stole the victim’s bank card.

Those charged and remanded were:

51 year old Claudiu Marcu of Tufton Street, Southwest London

36 year old Ionut Gheorghe, of Gunyard Mews, Southeast London

50 year old Emil Tudor of Denbigh Street, Southeast London

Detective Sergeant Will Daglish, from the Tactical Resources Team, said: “Many elderly and vulnerable people have fallen victim to this type of crime, often specifically targeted by offenders who keep an eye out for people when they are shopping.

“I’d urge anyone using bank cards at tills or ATMs to be vigilant when entering your PIN and to make sure you are not being observed. If you have been targeted by this type of crime please report it, if you have elderly or vulnerable relatives please share this advice.”

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