Alert Citizen Helps Police Stop Jewelry Distraction Theft in Vaughan

May 22, 2026 Media Release

Investigators with the York Regional Police #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged three suspects in connection to an attempted jewelry distraction theft in the City of Vaughan, thanks to the quick actions of an observant citizen.  

On Monday, May 18, 2026 at approximately 3 p.m., police responded to the report of a suspicious person in the areas of Bathurst Glen Drive and Schuster Lane. A concerned citizen contacted police after observing three men in a white Nissan Rogue attempt a jewelry distraction theft against their elderly neighbour. Thanks to the quick response taken by the citizen, the theft was interrupted and the three suspects were arrested.

A quantity of counterfeit jewellery was recovered.

York Regional Police is crediting the neighbour’s alertness and quick decision to contact police as a key factor in the arrest. By recognizing suspicious behaviour and reporting it immediately, the citizen interrupted the theft and helped officers take the suspects into custody.

This is the second time an observant citizen in Vaughan has contacted police after seeing elderly neighbours being targeted, leading to an arrest. The previous incident occurred in November 2025.

Investigators are releasing the photos of the suspects as they believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is asked to contact police.

Charged: 

  • Ovidiu ALEXANDRU, 33, of the City of Markham

Charges: 

  • Attempt Theft
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
  • Iosif ALEXANDRU, 31, of the City of Pickering

  • Florian MUSATA, 34, of the City of Toronto


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 #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, extension 7445. 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.