A video has been released by the police of a woman stealing someone's phone in a local fast food stop in Reading. 

Nirex Stanescu, aged 24, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to nine counts of theft, each relating to distraction thefts of mobile phones.

Five offenses occurred in Milton Keynes, Reading, Slough, Wokingham, and Oxford.

The video clearly shows Stanescu putting a piece of paper over the man's phone whilst chatting to him. She then leaves, taking the phone with her which is concealed under the document.

 

Between May 4 2024 and July 12 2024, Stanescu entered restaurants in various locations, approaching people eating meals and who had their phones on tables.

Stanescu would place a map or other paperwork over the phone, before distracting her victims and stealing the phone.

She was arrested on September 25 and charged the following day.

At Reading Magistrates’ Court last Friday, September 27, Stanescu admitted the offences, and was sentenced to a total of eight months’ imprisonment.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Michael Hanson, of the Reading Priority Crime Team, said: “Stanescu would use distracting techniques to target her victims, stealing their phones when she employed these tactics.

“I am pleased that she pleaded guilty at the first hearing and has now been sentenced to prison as a result.

“I hope that her time in prison is used constructively to reflect on her offending behaviour.

“Although Stanescu used distractive techniques, this case is a timely reminder of the risks involved in leaving property in full view.

“I would advise people to keep their property close at hand, or out of sight, in order to prevent opportunists such as Stanescu targeting them.”