Noel Graveran-Palacios, Credit Card Skimming, Florida 2018

A federal jury found Noel Graveran-Palacios, 37, and his twin brother Yoel Graveran-Palacios guilty of conspiracy, credit card fraud, and identity theft in April 2018 for their roles in a massive credit card skimming operation.

U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell handed Noel Graveran-Palacios a 10 years and 1 month prison sentence for his crimes. His twin, Yoel Graveran-Palacios, received a 9-year sentence after being sentenced on September 4, 2018.

The twin brothers, along with their accomplices, placed skimmers on gas pumps across the Tampa Bay area. The stolen account numbers were then used to create counterfeit credit cards, which were used to purchase merchandise such as gas, toys, clothes, and gift cards at various retailers.

Once the gift cards were obtained, they were used to purchase items at home improvement stores and then returned for cash. The extensive investigation led to the recovery of hundreds of stolen account numbers and dozens of surveillance videos featuring the conspirators.

The case was a result of a joint investigation by the United States Secret Service and the Tampa Police Department, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Mandy Riedel prosecuted the case.

Noel Graveran-Palacios will spend the next decade behind bars for his role in the massive credit card skimming operation. His twin brother, Yoel, received a nearly identical sentence for his involvement in the crimes.

The conviction serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of credit card skimming and identity theft. It is essential for the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity at gas pumps or other retailers.

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