Fairfax County Police detectives are warning the public of several recent jewelry thefts by con artists. The victims were all approached in store parking lots. The suspect used sleight of hand to replace the victim’s jewelry with costume pieces.
FCPD says they have identified Cristina Milhaela Paun, 21, of Baltimore in connection with the crimes. Detectives have issued warrants against Paun for felony pickpocketing and robbery.
Jewelry Con Artist Thefts
On March 20 at 1:30 p.m., a victim was returning her shopping cart in the 6900 block of Hechinger Drive in Springfield. A white SUV pulled up next to her in the parking lot, and a woman “lured the victim towards the vehicle.” While talking about jewelry, the suspect placed a ring on the victim’s finger.
The woman hugged the victim and placed a necklace around her neck, taking the victim’s actual necklace in the process. The suspect drove away, and the suspect realized the theft. Surveillance video of that incident is below.
Officers responded to a similar incident that day at 3:30 p.m. The victim was walking near the 12900 block of Wood Crescent Circle near Herndon when she was approached by a woman who said it was her birthday, asked for a hug, and offered her a fake ring. The woman removed the victim’s necklace, entered a white SUV, and left the area.
At 3:55 p.m., a victim was approached by a black SUV in the parking lot in the 6800 block of Commerce Street in Franconia. A female passenger — described as about 50 years old with red hair and gold teeth — attempted to converse and offer her jewelry.
The woman placed a necklace around the victim’s neck; she immediately recognized it as costume jewelry. The rear passenger — described as a 25-year-old female with a headscarf — began speaking to the victim as the front passenger held her hand. The vehicle left, and the victim realized her necklace and bracelets had been replaced with costume jewelry.
Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding Paun’s whereabouts or information about similar incidents to call the Reston Police Station at 703-478-0904. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online or by calling 1-866-411-8477.
FCPD Safety Tips
FCPD shared these safety tips to avoid being a victim of similar crimes:
- Keep your distance. If someone approaches you trying to sell jewelry, especially in a parking lot or on the street, maintain space and avoid close physical contact.
- Do not accept or try on items. Pickpockets often use this tactic to distract you and may remove your real jewelry while placing fake items on you.
- Stay alert to distractions. Be cautious if the person is overly friendly, persistent, or trying to rush the interaction. These are common tactics used to lower your guard.
- Secure your valuables. Keep jewelry, wallets, and phones out of reach and avoid displaying expensive items in public.
- Trust your instincts and report it. If something feels off, leave the area immediately and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement, providing descriptions if possible.
Feature image courtesy Fairfax County Police/Facebook
