'Foreign national' charged in violent distraction robbery of senior believed part of criminal network: York cops
An unidentified male and female are also sought in the July 15 incident in Richmond Hill
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York Regional Police have charged a “foreign national” and are seeking at least two more suspects allegedly involved in a violent jewelry distraction robbery of a senior in Richmond Hill.
Cops say on July 15 around 11:15 a.m., officers responded to a collision in a plaza parking lot near Yonge St. and Canyon Hill Ave. where a pedestrian was injured.
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Officers determined the 78-year-old female victim had been subjected to a violent jewelry distraction robbery and the suspect had fled in a white 2024 Nissan Rogue before police arrived.
The suspected driver of the vehicle was identified as Radu Oracel, 35. The Toronto man is charged with robbery and dangerous operation.
Two additional suspects in the vehicle, a male and a female, have not yet been identified. The rental vehicle has since been returned.
Investigators allege Orcel is part of a criminal network of foreign nationals operating in York Region with the primary intention of committing crimes and there is concern other victims have yet to come forward.
Anyone who recognizes Oracel, the vehicle, or has information that could identify the wanted pair is asked to contact police at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 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.
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