Five Charged In Multi-State Fuel Pump Skimmer And Diesel Theft Conspiracy
Five individuals were charged this week by federal authorities in connection with an alleged multi-state conspiracy involving fuel pump skimmers and diesel theft.
According to a May 20th announcement by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Middle District of Florida, the five men, all from Florida, face charges including conspiracy, wire fraud, access device fraud, and aggravated identity theft.
The complaint alleges the men placed skimming devices on gas pumps in northern Florida and other unspecified states. The stolen data, authorities believe, was then used to create counterfeit debit or credit cards for purchasing diesel fuel. These purchases involved vehicles modified with bladders or containers to transport the fuel to a storage facility.
Investigators allege the stolen fuel was then sold to a gas station connected to one of the individuals involved.
If convicted, each defendant could face significant prison sentences and financial penalties. Potential sentences include up to 20 years for wire fraud, 10 years for access device fraud, and 5 years for conspiracy.
Additionally, mandatory minimum sentences of 2 years could apply for each aggravated identity theft charge, along with court-ordered restitution to victims.