New York Resident Sentenced for ATM Skimming Scheme

New York Resident Sentenced for ATM Skimming Scheme

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – A New York resident was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for his role in a massive ATM skimming scheme that compromised the accounts of over 1,300 individuals.

Moises Morales Cano, 32, of Astoria, N.Y., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge John J. McConnell, Jr. to 24 months in prison, 5 years supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $709,597.50. Cano pleaded guilty on May 3, 2016, to bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges.

The scheme, which took place between January 1 and April 4, 2015, involved Cano and his co-conspirators attaching skimming devices to ATMs at banks in several communities in Rhode Island and Connecticut. The devices intercepted the debit card information and PINs of unsuspecting customers, which were then used to create counterfeit debit cards. Over 1,329 individuals had their accounts compromised, resulting in a loss of $709,597.50.

The case was investigated by the United States Attorney’s Office, U.S. Secret Service, and the Warwick Police Department, with the assistance of the Smithfield, East Providence, Cranston, and Johnston Police Departments. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lee H. Vilker.

Cano has been detained in federal custody since his arrest on September 9, 2015. The sentence is a significant blow to those who thought they could get away with stealing from unsuspecting customers. As one investigator noted, ‘Cano’s sentence serves as a reminder that those who engage in financial crimes will be held accountable for their actions.’

The U.S. Attorney’s Office commended the investigative agencies involved in the case for their tireless efforts in bringing Cano to justice. The public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

Contact: Jim Martin (401) 709-5357, USARI.Media@usdoj.gov, @USAO_RI

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