The Irvine Police Department has issued a Community Warning and is seeking information regarding a suspect named Retan Munteanu, 24, of Romania.

Munteanu has traveled the globe scamming businesses out of money through sleight of hand during cash purchases. He skillfully distracts and confuses cashiers while covertly removing bills from cash being counted.

Munteanu recently visited a jewelry store in Irvine where he was able to pocket $1,900 from a jewelry purchase.

The community is warned to watch for Munteanu when conducting cash transactions. Do NOT let him handle any of your store’s cash!

Anyone with information about Manteanu is asked to contact Detective Ricci at Mricci@cityofirvine.org.