Distraction theft offender sentenced

A man has been jailed following a string of distraction thefts across Surrey. 

On 19 June 2025, Claudiu Marcu, 51 (DOB 22/12/1973), from London, was sentenced at St Albans Crown Court to two years and four months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to steal, multiple theft offences and two offences of fraud by false representation. 

Marcu’s offending happened in Surrey between November 2024 and February 2025. He would prey on elderly people within supermarkets, stealing wallets, purses and bags while they were distracted. He used victims’ bank cards fraudulently, withdrawing thousands of pounds. In total, he is believed to have stolen over £40,000 in relation to these offences. 

Marcu was arrested in Hertfordshire on 18 March 2025. The extent of his offending was uncovered and stretched across several areas, including Surrey, Hertfordshire, Thames Valley and London Metropolitan police forces.  

An in-depth, cross-force investigation resulted in strong evidential material, including CCTV footage and victim and witness statements, being collated, leading to the successful charge and remand of Marcu. 

PC Emilie Budd, who worked closely with Hertfordshire Police during the investigation, said: “The hard work and dedication of everyone involved in this case resulted in a positive outcome and achieved justice for the victims. 

“Marcu was calculated in his offending and preyed on those considered more vulnerable for his own personal financial gain. I am pleased that he will serve his punishment behind bars and will not be able to offend on our streets.”