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VIDEO – Arrest Made in Violent Jewelry Distraction Robbery in Richmond Hill

Posted on Friday August 08, 2025

Investigators with the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged a foreign national and are seeking at least two more suspects involved in a violent jewelry distraction robbery in the City of Richmond Hill.

On Friday, July 15, 2025, at approximately 11:15 a.m., police responded to a reported collision in a plaza parking lot near Yonge Street and Canyon Hill Avenue, where a pedestrian was injured. Upon arrival, officers determined that the 78-year-old female had been subjected to a violent jewelry distraction robbery. The suspect had fled the scene in a white 2024 Nissan Rogue before police arrived. A video capturing the incident can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/PzrzstjbOtE

Through investigation, the driver of the vehicle was identified as Radu ORACEL. Two additional suspects, a male and a female, who were also in the vehicle, have not yet been identified. The rental vehicle they were using has since been returned.

Investigators believe ORACEL is part of a criminal network of foreign nationals operating in York Region with the primary intention of committing crimes. There is a concern that other victims have yet to come forward; therefore, ORACEL’s image is being released to the public.

 

Charged:

  • Radu ORACEL, 35, of City of Toronto
 

Charges:

  • Robbery
  • Dangerous Operation

 

Anyone who recognizes ORACEL, the vehicle, or has information that could identify his accomplices is urged to contact the police.

York Regional Police would like to remind citizens to be cautious and protect themselves:

  • Be wary of strangers approaching you in public to engage in conversation
  • Be cautious of people being overly friendly or asking for directions while closing the distance on your personal space
  • Keep your valuables in a safe and secure place that would be difficult for someone to access
  • If you witness any suspicious people or activity, or are a victim, contact police immediately

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, extension 7244. Anyone seeking to provide information anonymously can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or provide a tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by:     Constable Lisa Moskaluk

                        25-233529

                        August 8, 2025