The Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) has arrested three people in what it alleges is an ATM distraction theft operation across multiple counties in California.
North Operations investigators from the OCSD arrested Romanian nationals Romita Achitei, Paul Agafitei and George Asafiei on Jan. 6, the sheriff’s department said in a press release. The trio faces multiple felony charges, including grand theft, identity theft and forgery. The sheriff’s department linked the trio to multiple alleged distraction thefts that took place in Orange, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Sacramento counties.
A 66-year-old victim, not identified, used the ATM at a bank in Villa Park on Nov. 18. One of the suspects allegedly watched the victim enter his PIN. While completing his transaction, another suspect dropped money at the victim’s feet, causing him to bend down and pick it up. While the victim was distracted, another suspect switched the victim’s ATM card with a fraudulent one. The suspects then allegedly used the victim’s ATM card and PIN to make purchases and withdraw cash. (RELATED: Police Arrest Teen After He Allegedly Set His Friend On Fire With Gasoline Can)
The victim discovered his ATM card had been compromised the next day and reported it to the sheriff’s department on Nov. 22, according to the release.
Using surveillance video from the bank, investigators from the OCSD identified a grey SUV they believed was linked to the alleged incident. They identified the vehicle and the possible suspects with assistance from the OC Sheriff Crime Analysis Detail.
Following this pattern of theft distraction crimes, the sheriff’s department is urging Californians to “remain vigilant” while using the ATM.
“It is important to remain vigilant when at the ATM or any time you are using a debit card. Always cover the keypad when entering your PIN and avoid engaging with strangers while completing your transaction. In addition, be wary of strangers approaching you for any reason while walking to your car or leaving a retail store. If someone approaches you, make sure to keep your distance and do not allow any stranger within arm’s reach,” the department said in the release.
At least a dozen victims have been impacted by distraction theft crimes, according to authorities. The sheriff’s department said it believes there may be more victims.
The Daily Caller contacted the OCSD, who did not immediately comment.