WEST HOLLYWOOD – Sheriff John Anderson is releasing surveillance video showing a man in West Hollywood making a purchase with stolen credit card information swiped using a card skimmer the 22-Mile House back in November.
“We are hoping that anyone who may be able to identify this man will come forward,” says Anderson.The surveillance was taken on Dec. 28, 2012 at approximately 2:18 p.m. The subject is seen inside a 7-11, purchasing a carton of cigarettes, and getting into the passenger side of a blue/purple colored 4-door sedan … possibly a Camry. This was the second 7-11 he hit that day.
The first mini-mart was located at 7609 Santa Monica Blvd, and the second at 7950 Santa Monica Blvd. It is suspected that he has used the card at several other locations as well.
Meanwhile the number of credit and/or debit card victims who purchased gas at the 22-Mile House is growing.
Detectives believe that whoever set up of the skimming operation loaded that information onto blank cards and is either selling those cards or using them to make purchases – such as cigarettes – to sell on the black market.
In some cases they are making high-dollar purchases, says Sheriff Anderson. One victim in particular found fraudulent charges totaling $11,000.
So far it appears they are buying mostly cigarettes and gas, but detectives also found a room charge at a hotel in Las Vegas.
Anderson says there is no way to know at this time how many people are involved. What detectives are learning is that they will rack up as many charges on one card as possible before it’s shut down, and then move on to another card, and another.
Anyone with information is urged to call the Madera County Sheriff’s Office at 559-675-7770 or CRIME STOPPERS at 559-498-STOP.
Credit card/debit card purchases at this store, should only be allowed if a person goes INSIDE the mini mart. if there is a credit card/debit card processor at the gas pump – SHUT IT DOWN. If the problem continues, well then – y’all know where to look!