Rudi Lacatusu and Mirabela Lacatusu were arrested October 5 and charged with three counts of grand larceny each in connection with jewelry thefts across multiple states, Nassau County Police said.
The pair's alleged method involved approaching victims to ask for directions, with Mirabela Lacatusu then requesting a hug to thank them. While hugging the victim, she would unclasp and remove their necklace before the pair drove away.
Police said the suspects allegedly carried out at least 14 robberies in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and Maryland. The stolen necklaces were valued between $2,000 and $3,000 each.
Following arrest, Nassau County Police transferred the suspects to Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody. According to DHS, both suspects entered the United States illegally.