Kevin P. Davidson, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama
A Miami man has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for his involvement in a scheme to install card skimming devices on grocery store payment terminals in Alabama’s River Region. Yosniel Sotomayor Rodriguez, 40, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully use a counterfeit access device and will also serve three years of supervised release after his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson stated, “Card skimming devices are designed to blend in, but consumers can protect themselves by staying alert. Before inserting or swiping your card, take a moment to inspect the card reader. If the keypad feels loose, the card slot appears bulky or misaligned, or any part of the machine appears tampered with, do not use it. Consumers should also monitor their bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions. I am grateful for the swift work of law enforcement and store personnel whose quick actions led to the removal of the devices before any stolen financial information could be used to harm unsuspecting victims.”
Resident Agent in Charge Todd Haralson with the U.S. Secret Service Montgomery Resident Office added, “The Secret Service is dedicated to going after those who aim to exploit our financial systems and target innocent victims, especially here in Alabama where folks work hard for every dollar. We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners, including the pivotal role played by the ALEA Trooper whose traffic stop set this case in motion. With support from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we will continue to investigate, arrest, and support prosecution of criminals who choose to commit fraud in Alabama and across the nation.”
Court records show that in May 2024 a regional grocery store chain found four card skimming devices installed at stores located in Montgomery, Prattville, and Millbrook. These devices captured about 221 unique card numbers before being discovered and removed.
Investigators determined that Rodriguez entered these stores using distractions so he could secretly install skimmers over payment terminals without detection. The compromised account information was not used because staff detected and removed the devices quickly.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Secret Service with help from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Megan A. Kirkpatrick prosecuted this case.
