WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – A slick operation targeting gas pumps across multiple states has landed five Floridians in hot water with federal authorities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced a federal grand jury indictment on December 5, 2017, charging the group with conspiracy to commit access device fraud and related offenses. Investigators say the crew systematically installed skimming devices on gas pumps, stealing credit and debit card information from unsuspecting motorists.
The scheme wasn’t just about lifting the data; the indictment alleges the group had a sophisticated system for harvesting the stolen account information and using it to create fraudulent cards. These cards were then deployed to make unauthorized purchases at businesses in West Virginia and other states, turning stolen gas money into cold, hard cash. The operation spanned from August 28, 2017, to December 5, 2017, primarily focusing on Monongalia County, West Virginia.
Four of the alleged conspirators are scheduled to appear in federal court next week: Meylan Montalvo Gomez, 27, of Hialeah, Florida; Yarai Fuentes Quinones, 26, of Hialeah, Florida; Naudi Reyes Fernandez, 36, of Miami, Florida; and Yosan Pons Sosa, 28, of Miami, Florida. Each faces a charge of “Conspiracy to Commit Access Device Fraud,” along with other unspecified fraud-related charges. The feds are also hunting for Lazaro Serrano Diaz, 27, of Miami, Florida, for whom a warrant has been issued.
Federal investigators aren’t just seeking convictions; they’re aiming to recoup the ill-gotten gains. The U.S. government is pursuing forfeiture of a substantial haul: approximately $41,140.00 in U.S. currency, $28,498.00 in Western Union money orders, $10,300.00 in MoneyGram money orders, and around $29,350.00 loaded onto sixty gift cards seized during a raid in Huntington, West Virginia on October 23, 2017. They are also seeking the remaining $1,510.73 found in a TD Bank account.
The investigation was a multi-agency effort, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Secret Service, with crucial support from the West Virginia State Police and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jarod J. Douglas is leading the prosecution. While the indictment represents a significant step, it’s important to remember that these are merely allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of financial fraud and the lengths criminals will go to exploit vulnerable systems. Authorities urge consumers to remain vigilant when using gas pumps and to regularly monitor their bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activity. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any developments as they unfold.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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