A Romanian citizen has pleaded guilty in federal court to a series of sleight-of-hand frauds that targeted Walmart stores across the United States and resulted in losses of at least $130,000.
Suras Rostas, 21, entered his plea on Tuesday before a U.S. District Court judge in St. Louis. According to court records, Rostas traveled nationwide from April 2023 through October 2024 and used deceptive cash-handling techniques to shortchange Walmart cashiers by significant amounts during transactions. After having merchandise scanned or starting an electronic money transfer, Rostas would count out enough money for the purchase but then retrieve the bills and surreptitiously pocket some before handing them back to the cashier. He often returned merchandise afterward for a full cash refund.
During Tuesday’s hearing, Rostas admitted to carrying out at least 45 fraudulent transactions in Walmart locations spanning at least 18 states. The total amount lost by Walmart as a result was no less than $130,000.
Rostas is scheduled for sentencing on December 11. The wire fraud charges he faces each carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. Restitution will be ordered and deportation is likely.
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations unit, along with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and Arnold Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Ladendorf is prosecuting.
"Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine. He will be ordered to repay the money and will likely be deported."
