Dothan, Ala. — Two Romanian nationals have been arrested in Florida for their alleged involvement in a nationwide criminal enterprise targeting consumers through card skimming. Adelin Denis Lonescu, 23, and Catalina Marian Matei, 23, were taken into custody by the Ozark Police Department on charges of encoded data fraud, computer tampering, and criminal possession of a forgery device.
The investigation began on March 25 when an employee at an Ozark grocery store discovered a card skimming device attached to a payment terminal. The device, which captures magnetic strip data and records PIN numbers entered by customers, was promptly reported to the police. Within 12 hours of the initial discovery, Lonescu and Matei were arrested in Lynn Haven, Florida, roughly 100 miles southeast of Ozark.
According to the Ozark Police Department, the quick action was made possible through collaborative efforts with the United States Secret Service. Investigators revealed that the two suspects were part of a broader criminal operation spanning multiple states. Authorities have stated that Lonescu and Matei’s activities could be connected to a larger-scale network involved in various financial crimes across the country.
“The investigation has led to networking with the Secret Service, who have indicated that the suspects are connected to a large-scale criminal enterprise operating throughout the country,” said the Ozark Police Department in a statement. “We commend the hard work and dedication of all officers involved in this case and remain committed to protecting the safety and well-being of our community and beyond.”
Card skimming is a growing concern for law enforcement agencies nationwide. Criminals use sophisticated devices to secretly capture sensitive financial information from unsuspecting victims, often leading to identity theft and financial fraud. The quick apprehension of Lonescu and Matei has brought attention to the continued threat posed by such schemes.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging consumers to remain vigilant when using their payment cards, especially at unattended or public-facing terminals.
