Police Seek Suspects in Fairfax County Jewelry Theft Spree

Detectives identify one woman connected to multiple sleight-of-hand robberies across Northern Virginia

Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:14pm

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Fairfax County Police have identified 21-year-old Cristina Milhaela Paun as a suspect in a string of jewelry thefts committed through distraction and sleight-of-hand tactics in shopping center parking lots across the region. Paun and her accomplices allegedly approached victims, placed fake jewelry on them, and stole their real necklaces and bracelets before quickly fleeing in white and black SUVs.

Why it matters

These types of distraction thefts, often targeting elderly or vulnerable victims, have become an increasing concern for law enforcement in Northern Virginia as criminals seek to exploit unsuspecting shoppers. The Fairfax County Police Department is seeking the public's help to locate Paun and her associates to prevent further incidents.

The details

According to police, the thefts occurred on March 20th in multiple locations, including the 6900 block of Hechinger Drive in Springfield, the 13900 block of Metrotech Drive in Chantilly, the 12900 block of Wood Crescent Circle near Herndon, and the 6800 block of Commerce Street in Franconia. In each case, a female suspect approached the victim, placed fake jewelry on them, and then stole their real necklaces and bracelets before quickly leaving the area in a waiting SUV.

  • On March 20, the first incident occurred at 1:30 p.m. in the 6900 block of Hechinger Drive.
  • At 1:30 p.m. on March 20, another victim was approached in the 13900 block of Metrotech Drive in Chantilly.
  • Officers responded to the 12900 block of Wood Crescent Circle near Herndon for a similar theft at 3:30 p.m. on March 20.
  • The fourth incident occurred at 3:55 p.m. on March 20 in the 6800 block of Commerce Street in Franconia.

The players

Cristina Milhaela Paun

A 21-year-old woman from Baltimore who has been identified by detectives as one of the suspects involved in the jewelry thefts.

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What’s next

Detectives have obtained warrants for Paun's arrest on charges of Felony Pickpocketing and Robbery. They are currently seeking information on her whereabouts and asking the public to come forward with any details that could help locate her and her accomplices.

The takeaway

The Fairfax County Police Department's investigation into these brazen jewelry thefts highlights the need for heightened awareness and vigilance among shoppers, especially in crowded parking lots and public spaces. Residents are encouraged to be cautious of strangers approaching them and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the authorities.