Scottsdale, Ariz. – Scottsdale Police are searching for a fourth suspect involved in a series of fraud schemes across the Valley, utilizing illegal skimming devices on ATMs. This investigation, which began in late August, led to the discovery of skimmers on ATMs in Scottsdale and Phoenix, resulting in the arrests of three Romanian men.
The investigation was sparked on August 30 when a 911 call was made reporting that a person’s card was being used at an ATM, despite the card not being lost or stolen. This led detectives to uncover a network of fraudulent activity involving several Valley locations, including Circle K, QuikTrip, 7-11, Walgreens, CVS, Bank of America, and U.S. Bank ATMs.
Fernando Emanual Cojocaru, Robert Mario Oletanu, and Filon Petrican, all from Romania, face six felony charges, including fraud schemes. Oletanu and Cojocaru are accused of placing skimmers on ATM card readers to capture users’ card information while allowing them to complete legitimate transactions. The stolen data was later used for unauthorized purchases.
Filon Petrican was arrested during a search of his brother’s Phoenix apartment, where a re-encoded gift card was found, potentially used for fraud. Authorities believe Petrican’s brother, Eduard Ichim, fled before the search warrant was executed.
Eduard Ichim was identified as the first suspect in the case after surveillance footage showed him using multiple cards at a Capital One ATM in Scottsdale Fashion Square. Police later discovered six additional incidents involving Ichim and another accomplice.
Cybersecurity experts warn consumers to be cautious when using ATMs and gas station pumps. “Using chip cards, especially tap-to-pay, provides an added layer of security,” said Tim Roemer, Chief Security Officer of Global Market Innovators.
Scottsdale Police are urging anyone with information on Eduard Ichim’s whereabouts to contact their tip line at 480-312-TIPS. The three other suspects remain in custody as they await trial.
