On Oct. 29, a victim was driving home, when he saw three people on the side of Interstate 495. The victim stopped to provide aid. A woman said the stranded group needed money to continue their travels. She showed the victim a watch and gold jewelry. She requested cash in exchange for the items. The woman convinced the victim to drive to an ATM. Two men in a black SUV followed the victim and woman. The victim began driving and quickly realized this was likely a scam. The victim stopped in a parking lot and exited his car. One of the men from the other vehicle exited their car and told the victim to sit in the driver’s seat while he drove the victim to obtain money.
The suspect then drove the victim to four locations in the county. Through intimidation, the crew forced the man to withdraw money. Once the victim’s accounts were empty, the suspects left the victim, and he called 911.
Officers believed this group was likely operating in the area and continued to search for the black SUV used in the crime. On Nov. 3, an officer saw a gray Chevrolet Tahoe that appeared to be disabled on the Dulles Toll Road. The officer conducted a traffic stop and identified the occupants as Magdalena Mazil, 39, Hagi Voinescu, 36, and Romeo Voinescu, 23 all from Baltimore. Officers obtained consent to search the vehicle and located large amounts of fake gold jewelry.
After further investigation, officers obtained warrants for abduction and four counts of robbery for all three individuals. An additional two warrants for preventing someone from calling 911 was issued for Hagi Voinescu. Two additional warrants for preventing a telephone call were obtained for Magdalena Mazil. An additional warrant for driver failing to report an accident was issued for Romeo Voinescu. On Nov. 22, Baltimore City detectives arrested both Hagi and Magdalena. Romeo remains outstanding.
Detectives believe the suspects are related to other crimes in the area. Anyone with information about this crime or believe they were victim to their scheme, please call 703-691-2131. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS.