WRENTHAM — A suspected fraudster with ties to an international Romanian theft ring has been arrested in Wrentham, and her scam is straight out of a movie script.

Federal agents with ICE’s Boston office say they nabbed Clara Badanac, an illegal Romanian national, for allegedly participating in a coordinated criminal scheme that spanned the U.S., targeting retail stores and exploiting American generosity.

According to ICE, Badanac is part of a “Romanian Theft Group” that didn’t just stop at shoplifting. The group is accused of running elaborate scams involving fake sob stories — often centering around sick or dying children — to dupe unsuspecting shoppers into handing over cash.

“Coordinated retail thefts and fraudulent sick child scams throughout the United States,” ICE wrote in a statement posted to X.

The bust happened in Wrentham, best known for its premium outlet mall and suburban quiet — not exactly the place you’d expect to find a globe-spanning con ring.

It’s unclear how long Badanac operated in Massachusetts or how many victims were caught up in the alleged scam. But her arrest highlights what law enforcement has long warned: organized international crime groups are setting up shop in America’s sanctuary states — and using emotional manipulation to cash in.

ICE didn’t mince words in its post — referring to Badanac as an “illegal Romanian alien” and tying her to a web of deception that preys on kindness.

The case is now in the hands of immigration authorities and federal investigators.