Seven Venezuelan Nationals Arrested in Baton Rouge ATM Tampering Scheme

BATON ROUGE, LA — A joint law enforcement operation led by the Louisiana State Police (LSP) has resulted in the apprehension of seven Venezuelan nationals in Baton Rouge. The suspects are accused of tampering with automated teller machines (ATMs) across the metropolitan area, utilizing advanced skimming devices to compromise financial security.

The investigation began after local banking institutions reported anomalous activities and security alerts on several ATM terminals. LSP investigators, in cooperation with federal partners and local departments, monitored the sites and identified a coordinated group operating in the vicinity. The suspects were intercepted while allegedly installing or retrieving data-harvesting components from the machines.

According to police reports, the skimming equipment seized during the arrests included card reader overlays and micro-cameras designed to capture card numbers and PIN entries. Additionally, officers recovered cloned cards, electronic tools, and a significant amount of cash.

The seven individuals have been booked into the local detention center and face multiple state charges, including bank fraud, identity theft, and criminal conspiracy. Federal agencies are also reviewing the case to determine if immigration or additional federal financial crime charges are warranted. Law enforcement officials advise ATM users to remain vigilant and report any suspicious devices attached to card slots.