Authorities Hunt Romanian Fraud Suspects Who Removed GPS Trackers

Authorities in Ventura County are actively searching for two Romanian nationals who skipped bail after being charged in a financial fraud case linked to a broader international investigation.

The suspects, identified as Paul Kimpian (also known as Roman Janecek) and Marius Vlaic, are believed to be affiliated with the Dorneanu organized crime group. According to the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office, both men cut off their ankle monitors and fled after posting $50,000 bail in 2023.

Fraud Charges and Investigation

Kimpian and Vlaic were facing over a dozen felony charges, including conspiracy and grand theft, for their alleged involvement in a CalWORKs fraud operation that utilized cloned EBT cards to steal funds from welfare recipients.

Their arrests were part of a larger investigation by U.S. and Romanian authorities, which has already led to the capture of 11 other individuals.

Also Read – Economic Blackout Protest Set for Friday: Shoppers Urged to Boycott Major Retailers

Officials say the Dorneanu group, allegedly led by Mihai Dorneanu, has been under scrutiny for two years due to its role in a massive EBT skimming scheme. The fraud has resulted in the theft of hundreds of millions of dollars from California’s welfare system, including approximately $2.2 million stolen from Ventura County residents alone since 2021.

International Crackdown

As part of the ongoing investigation, authorities in Romania recently executed 24 search warrants, leading to the arrest of 11 individuals. Officials also seized numerous items, including devices used to clone EBT cards, electronic components, mobile phones, laptops, large sums of cash, and six vehicles.

District Attorney Erik Nasarenko emphasized the importance of collaboration between local, federal, and international law enforcement in dismantling criminal networks that exploit public assistance programs.

“Our office remains committed to protecting Ventura County residents from fraud and financial exploitation,” Nasarenko stated.

Public Assistance Needed

Authorities are urging anyone with information on the whereabouts of Kimpian and Vlaic to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.

Law enforcement officials also noted that Romanian nationals have been implicated in other organized crime activities in Southern California, including a jewelry-switching scam .

• Author
• Recent Posts

Layla Hango

Layla Hango is a dedicated author at The Chieftain Spear, where she delves into stories that highlight cultural richness, social issues, and community empowerment. With a passion for storytelling that inspires and informs, Layla brings a fresh perspective to her writing. Her work resonates with readers seeking meaningful dialogue and a deeper understanding of diverse experiences. Through her articles, Layla aims to spark positive change and celebrate the strength of collective voices.

Latest posts by Layla Hango (see all)

• New Details Emerge in Wild SoCal Police Chase Ending in Gunfire - April 23, 2025
• SoCal Man Stole $1.8M in Mail and Identity Theft Scheme - April 23, 2025
• ‘Cruel Practice’: Calls Grow to Relocate Elephants from L.A. Zoo - April 23, 2025