⏱ 2 min read
Denis Adelin Ionescu and Ioan Victor Stanciu, two Romanian nationals, were involved in a scheme to install credit card skimmers on point-of-sale terminals at grocery stores across Alabama and Mississippi. The scheme, which began in March 2025, targeted stores in Ozark, Dothan, Alexander City, Eufaula, Bessemer, Tuscaloosa, Gadsden, Mobile, Talladega, and Gulfport, Mississippi. The skimmers captured and stored information from credit, debit, and Electronic Benefit Transfer cards, which was then used to conduct fraudulent transactions.
The investigation, which started in March 2025, quickly identified Ionescu and Stanciu as suspects. They pleaded guilty to possession of device-making equipment and conspiracy to commit access device fraud, respectively. On March 26, 2026, Ionescu was sentenced to 46 months in prison, while Stanciu received a 24-month sentence.
The scheme involved the installation of 23 skimming devices at 12 separate locations, resulting in an intended loss of $1,794,978.36. However, the actual loss due to known fraudulent transactions was $50,978.36. The sentences reflect the severity of the crime and the impact on the victims.
The case highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing credit card skimming schemes. Consumers should regularly monitor their accounts for suspicious activity and report any discrepancies to their banks. The cooperation between law enforcement agencies and financial institutions is also crucial in detecting and preventing such crimes.
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📋 Key Facts
- Crime: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Defendant: Alabama
- Location: AL
- Source: DOJ Press Release
