Las Cruces police are asking for the public’s help in identifying the men suspected of victimizing at least 21 individuals by obtaining their credit card information and fraudulently using that information to purchase gift cards at area Walmarts.
So far, investigators have discovered victims from Las Cruces, Deming and El Paso in this scheme that appears to be perpetrated by at least three men. The crimes were first reported locally on Monday, Jan. 8.
Investigators believe the suspects somehow obtained information from credit cards, used that information to create duplicate cards and then used the replica cards to purchase Visa gift cards at area Walmart stores. Victims of this crime have not had their credit cards stolen and have maintained possession of them, so investigators are not completely sure how the suspects obtained information from those cards. It’s possible the suspects used a card skimmer or remote credit card reader to obtain information.
Investigators have reason to believe others may have been victimized in a similar manner but are not aware of it yet. Area residents are encouraged to review their bank and credit card statements and check with their financial institution if discrepancies are found.
The three suspects involved in the spree were captured on surveillance video leaving a Las Cruces Walmart store. The three suspects were seen leaving the parking lot in a silver sport utility vehicle.
Anyone with information that can help identify the three men is asked to call police immediately. Anyone with fraudulent activity related to their bank or credit cards should call police at (575) 526-0795.
Information from Las Cruces Police