Multiple Skimmers Found in Louisiana as Authorities Issue Warning to Shoppers

Local law enforcement agencies in Louisiana are warning residents to stay vigilant after several skimming devices were discovered in various stores across at least two Louisiana parishes. Skimmers, which are illegal devices used to steal credit and debit card information, were found in multiple locations in St. Tammany and Jefferson Parishes, prompting a coordinated investigation by the respective sheriff’s departments.

St. Tammany Parish Incident

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department reported that skimmers were identified at three stores within the parish. Sheriff Randy Smith emphasized the importance of not naming the affected stores to avoid unfairly damaging their reputation, noting that the stores themselves did nothing wrong and the skimmers have been removed.

The devices were detected on credit and debit card readers inside the stores, marking a shift from the usual placement on gas pumps and ATMs.

"Criminals are getting more brazen, and we are now seeing a new trend of them being placed on credit/debit card readers at checkouts inside retail stores," Sheriff Smith stated. He urged shoppers to closely inspect card readers before use and report any suspicious-looking devices to store management.

Petru Golban, 32, of Washington state, has been identified as a suspect in the case. He faces multiple charges, including Theft by Skimming and Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, and is currently incarcerated in Jefferson Parish on similar charges. Investigators are still attempting to identify an accomplice believed to be involved.

Jefferson Parish Incident

Similarly, in Jefferson Parish, Sheriff Joseph Lopinto announced the arrest of Golban after a customer found a skimmer at a grocery store in River Ridge. This discovery led to a broader investigation in collaboration with federal agencies, including the U.S. Secret Service and the Department of Agriculture’s Office of the Inspector General. Additional skimming devices were found at locations in both Jefferson and St. Tammany Parishes.

The investigation continues as authorities seek to identify more affected locations and the second suspect involved in the operation. Sheriff Lopinto advised the public to use tap-to-pay functions or chip cards whenever possible to reduce the risk of skimming. For those using magnetic strip cards, he recommended gently pulling at the corners of point-of-sale devices to check for any attached skimmers.

What Should Shoppers Be Looking Out For?

Both sheriff’s departments urge residents to remain cautious when using credit or debit card readers at stores, gas pumps, and ATMs. Regularly monitoring bank statements for suspicious transactions and reporting any irregularities is also advised. If a skimmer is found, discontinue use immediately and contact local authorities by calling 911.

Shoppers and business owners are encouraged to be vigilant and proactive in safeguarding against these types of financial crimes to protect personal and customer information. For more information or to report suspicious activity, Louisiana residents can contact their local sheriff’s office or Crimestoppers.