24 year old Nirex Stanescu has been handed an 8 month sentence after pleading guilty to nine counts.
Four of the offences took place in Staines, Walton and Woking.
Stanescu entered restaurants in various locations between May and July, approaching diners and who had their phones on tables.
She would place paperwork over the mobile, before distracting her victims and stealing the phone.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Michael Hanson of the Reading Priority Crime Team said: “Stanescu would use distracting techniques to target her victims, stealing their phones when she employed these tactics.
“I am pleased that she pleaded guilty at the first hearing and has now been sentenced to prison as a result. I hope that her time in prison is used constructively to reflect on her offending behaviour.
“Although Stanescu used distractive techniques, this case is a timely reminder of the risks involved in leaving property in full view. I would advise people to keep their property close at hand, or out of sight, in order to prevent opportunists such as Stanescu targeting them.”
Inspector Chris Thoday from the North Surrey Neighbourhood Policing Investigation Team said: “We worked closely with Thames Valley Police to ensure Stanescu was held accountable for her repeated and targeted offending that stretched across multiple counties.
“By reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses, we identified Stanescu and her tactics for stealing mobile phones. This type of distraction theft is something we’re seeing right across Surrey, so we urge people to stay aware of their surroundings and secure their belongings while out.”
