Jerome F. Gorgon, Jr., U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan | Department of Justice
Yosue Manuel Gonzalez-Moy, a Venezuelan national residing illegally in the United States, pleaded guilty on April 13 to conspiring to commit bank larceny for Tren de Aragua, a designated foreign terrorist organization, according to United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
The case highlights concerns about criminal activity linked to illegal immigration and the operations of transnational organizations within the country. Authorities say such crimes can impact communities nationwide.
According to Gorgon, Gonzalez-Moy and an accomplice traveled from Illinois to Dexter, Michigan on October 12, 2025. They attempted to break into an ATM at Chelsea State Bank using counterfeit tools and intended to use a device for 'ATM Jackpotting,' which would have forced the machine to dispense all its cash. The attempt failed when an alarm sounded; while fleeing, the accomplice crashed his vehicle and later died from his injuries. During questioning after his arrest, Gonzalez-Moy admitted his association with Tren de Aragua and said he tried breaking into the ATM at their request.
"People sometimes think that the dangers of illegal immigration are a faraway problem that don’t impact us here at home. Today’s conviction shows this is untrue. Tren de Aragua is a vicious and violent foreign terrorist cartel that has victimized numerous communities throughout the United States. Now they have come to Michigan to do the same. But they will find no sanctuary here," Gorgon said.
Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office, said: "Criminals who target financial systems through schemes like ATM Jackpotting will be identified and brought to justice... No matter the scheme, when there is a federal nexus, the FBI will work with our partners to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle operations of those involved." She commended law enforcement for holding Gonzalez-Moy accountable.
Gonzalez-Moy faces up to five years in prison if convicted.
This prosecution falls under the Homeland Security Task Force initiative established by Executive Order 14159: Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The task force brings together multiple agencies focused on combating criminal cartels and gangs operating domestically or abroad.
