Cat Burglar Duo Target Vulnerable Pensioners in Shocking Scam
Daniela Stoica faced justice at Portsmouth Crown Court on Friday (11 November) after pleading guilty to two counts of dwelling burglary. The crafty crook used a bogus lost-cat story to scam elderly victims and send an accomplice inside to steal.
Fake Lost Cat Ruse in Havant and Bagshot
The first break-in happened on April 26 on Eastleigh Road, Havant. Stoica knocked on the door of an elderly couple in their 80s, claiming she was searching for her missing cat. While convincing the pair to step outside and help, a man slipped into their home. Luckily, nothing was stolen on this occasion.
Just two days later, in Bagshot, Stoica repeated the ploy. A man in his 80s and a woman in her 70s opened their door to the same lost-cat story. This time the accomplice made off with jewellery and watches valued at over £30,000.
Police Hot on Stoica’s Tail
Authorities tracked down a vehicle linked to Stoica in South Wales the following day and arrested her. She was subsequently charged with two counts of dwelling burglary.
“The crimes committed by Stoica were despicable, she took advantage and abused the trust of kind people who were just trying to help her,” said PC Kirsty Watts of Hampshire Constabulary’s specialist burglary team Operation Hawk.
“The impact of having your home burgled should not be underestimated. I’m pleased we have secured this outcome for the victims. I hope this sentence sends a message that we will take action and investigate all crimes fully, even if it means following offenders across the country.”
PC Kat Sandys from Surrey Police added:
“Crime has no borders, and as this case shows, we will work quickly and effectively with other forces to share info, track down offenders, and make arrests.”
