2-7-17 Credit Card Skimming Arrests

Two men are arrested for offenses related to installation and operation of credit card "skimmers" at a local gas station on February 7, 2017. The following are the preliminary facts of that arrest:

A Chattanooga Police officer observed a large U-Haul truck pulled up to the gas pumps at the Mapco at 5500 Hwy 153

The officer observed an occupant of that vehicle manipulating the access door of the card reader for the gas pump

As the truck left the area the officer was able to confirm that the red security tape had been cut, indicating the device had been tampered with

Chattanooga Police were able to stop and detain the suspects and determine that they did not work for the Mapco

Upon taking the two suspects into custody, several items were confiscated from the suspects which could be used for "skimming" purposes to obtain credit card information

Both suspects were booked into the Hamilton County jail on multiple charges

The suspects were from out-of-state and are suspected to be a part of a national organized crime ring involved in credit card data theft

The United States Secret Service was informed of the arrest and will be investigating the suspects for potential federal prosecution

Chattanooga Police ask anyone with information regarding this incident to call 423-698-2525. The investigation is ongoing and more information will be released when available.

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NOTE: The preceding information is preliminary and is subject to change as the investigation continues.