NYPD Tracks Serial Costumed Thief
The "Bad" Actor
Between the stage and screen, New York City has long been a welcome home to working actors and thespians alike. One man with significant acting skills has more nefarious ambitions, however, and police say he’s used his talents to steal more than $1 million in cash and jewelry. He’s wanted for crimes across the country, including cases here in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens.
The Caper
Odds are this bad actor, who has played the part of electrician, plumber, delivery person, sports fan, and construction worker, has landed a role in your neighborhood with a performance that stole more than the show. In broad daylight, the alleged "bad" actor who police say typically works alone, dressed up as a handyman and quietly slipped into the victim’s home while loved ones were inside.
A Trail of Deceit
"My husband was in the kitchen cooking with the little kids," said one of the man’s New York victims. "And I came back upstairs to grab something from my bedroom and I was like ‘what’s going on?’” There was a crowbar and a man’s jacket and an ax. I started freaking out and we started looking through all the things that were gone."
The Investigation
The costumed caper may have finally caught his big break, with the NYPD. The department’s Major Case Squad says they’ve learned the name of their alleged bad actor. "His name is Yonut Candea. So far, we have records of him in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, and Canada as well," said Captain Ryan Gillis. "He hit here 25 times for a total of $1.6 million."
A Method to His Madness
Police say Candea prefers silent work, but he can also improve lines in a pinch. "When he gets caught with the people present at home, he still tries to talk his way out of it as if he is a plumber or some sort of worker," Gillis said. According to investigators, he has a signature move. Like an actor, he loves the camera and is always ready for his close-up. Time and time again, he has been caught on surveillance cameras looking into the lens.
FAQs
- Who is Yonut Candea?
Yonut Candea is the alleged serial thief who has stolen over $1.6 million in cash and jewelry across the United States. - Where has Candea been known to strike?
Candea has been linked to cases in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, and Canada. - How many times has Candea targeted homes in New York City?
Candea has hit 25 homes in New York City, resulting in a total loss of $1.6 million. - Is there a warrant out for Candea’s arrest?
Yes, there is a warrant for Candea’s arrest, and police are seeking the public’s help in locating him. - What is Candea’s modus operandi?
Candea typically dresses up as a handyman and slips into homes while loved ones are inside, using his acting skills to talk his way out of situations.
