Arvin PD make 2 arrests over credit card skimmer scam attempt

ARVIN, California (KGET) — Two people were arrested after allegedly trying to use a credit card skimmer on an unsuspecting wholesale customer in Arvin, according to police.

Surveillance footage from grocery store La Mexicana on Bear Market Boulevard shows what appears to be one man setting up a skimming device while two others distract customers from looking at the switch.

A skimmer is a device that fits into the card slot on an ATM or checkout. When a customer uses the machine, the skimmer copies all of their card information.

On Thursday, the thieves allegedly returned to retrieve the skimmer. But to their surprise, the device is gone.

The shop owner removed it and reported it to the police. Police officer Arvin is ready for them.

“Our police department followed up immediately and due to traffic conditions in the city we were actually able to arrest people at traffic stops,” said Jeff Jones, City Manager of Arvin.

Police Arvin Sgt. Brandon Snyder said the arrest of the two suspects was good for society, but nothing new at Arvin.

“We recover several skimmers in the city every week from ATMs at banks,” explains Snyder. “Their service technician at least called us, I think, every day saying there was a device they found in the ATM.”

This isn’t just a problem in Arvin, it’s statewide.

Arvin police officers said they would remain vigilant to ensure the public was not preyed upon and become victims of criminal activity.

“We found evidence to suggest they had specific locations for skimmers, ranging from San Diego County to Tulare County,” Snyder said.

“Make sure the device isn’t tampered with, your card goes in smoothly, goes out smoothly and if you’re not sure ask the store,” explains Jones.