Two Romanians were arrested in the U.S. after allegedly robbing elderly people in four states

Two Romanian citizens, a husband and wife, have been arrested in the United States and are accused of robbing dozens of elderly people, particularly women, in at least four U.S. states. The case was announced by Markwayne Mullin, secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), who described the pair as a “Bonnie and Clyde” couple.

The suspects were identified as 28-year-old Rudi Lăcatusu and 26-year-old Mirabela Lăcatusu. According to authorities, the two allegedly committed more than a dozen jewelry robberies, including in Long Island, New York. They allegedly gained their victims’ trust by presenting themselves as friendly people, then stole their jewelry within just a few seconds.

The couple, whom U.S. officials say were in the country illegally, had been wanted for several months. Authorities in Nassau County turned them over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), where they are currently in custody.

The two are expected to be deported to Romania, but must first face charges of fourth-degree grand larceny. Details about the arrests have not been made public. The alleged robberies are believed to have taken place over an extended period in four U.S. states.