Authorities in Orange County are warning bank customers to remain vigilant at outdoor ATMs after three Romanian nationals were arrested for orchestrating a distraction theft operation. The arrests stem from a scheme that began in November 2025.
According to investigators, the suspects—Romita Achitei, 61, Paul Agafitei, 43, and George Asafiei, 46—targeted victims by following them to ATMs. While a victim was completing a transaction, one suspect would drop cash at their feet to grab their attention. During the brief distraction, another suspect would swap the victim’s ATM card with a fake one. The stolen cards and corresponding PIN codes were then used to withdraw cash and make purchases.
The investigation revealed a pattern of similar crimes across Orange, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, San Francisco, and Sacramento counties. The suspects face multiple felony charges, including grand theft, identity theft, and forgery.
The sheriff’s department cautioned that criminals often rehearse these distraction routines and may attempt them in locations beyond ATMs, such as grocery stores or retail outlets. Customers are advised to cover keypads while entering PINs and keep a safe distance from strangers.
“If someone approaches you, make sure to keep your distance and do not allow any stranger within arm’s reach,” the Orange County Sheriff’s Department said.
