El Paso Standard

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a two-day operation in Orange County, targeting Romanian organized theft rings involved in unauthorized ATM transactions using counterfeit EBT cards. The operation, held from March 1-2, led to the arrest of 15 individuals for federal law violations related to access device fraud. Two additional arrests were made at the state level for EBT fraud.

The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 42 counterfeit EBT cards and bulk U.S. currency. Cases have been forwarded to the United States Attorney's Office in the Central District of California and relevant District Attorney’s Offices for prosecution.

John Pasciucco, acting Special Agent in Charge of ICE Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles, stated: “This type of fraud that is occurring in our communities cannot be combatted alone.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration with various federal, state, and local partners to combat ATM and EBT fraud effectively.

The operation involved multiple agencies including the Diplomatic Security Service, Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General, several district attorney offices, as well as numerous police departments across California.

It is important to note that indictments are merely allegations; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

For those with information on ATM or EBT fraud activities, ICE encourages contact via their Tip Line at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE.

More details about ICE HSI’s efforts can be found on their social media account @HSILosAngeles.