Orange County Sheriff’s Department investigators have arrested three individuals suspected of running an ATM distraction theft scheme that targeted victims in several counties across California. The suspects, all Romanian nationals, were taken into custody on January 6 following a multi-week investigation by North Operations detectives.
The case began when a 66-year-old man reported his ATM card was compromised at a bank in Villa Park. On November 18, while the victim was using the ATM, one suspect observed him entering his PIN. As the victim finished his transaction with his card still in the machine, another suspect dropped money at his feet to distract him. While the victim bent down to pick up the cash, a second suspect swapped out his card for a fraudulent one. The suspects then used the stolen card and PIN to make purchases and withdraw funds.
The victim realized what had happened on November 19 and reported it to authorities three days later.
Using video surveillance from the bank, investigators identified a grey SUV linked to the crime. With help from the OC Sheriff Crime Analysis Detail, they tracked down both the vehicle and possible suspects. Over several weeks, investigators uncovered a pattern of similar distraction thefts throughout Southern California.
On January 6, Romita Achitei (61), Paul Agafitei (43), and George Asafiei (46) were arrested on multiple felony charges including grand theft, identity theft and forgery. Investigators connected them to additional cases in Orange, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Sacramento counties.
Authorities believe there may be more victims who have not yet come forward. “The investigation is ongoing, and investigators believe there are more victims unaccounted for with substantial losses,” stated officials from the department. They encourage anyone who thinks they may have been affected by this type of crime to contact them at 714-647-7000.
“The OC Sheriff’s Department is sharing this important information to raise community awareness about these types of distraction thefts. Criminals who engage in this unlawful activity often are well-rehearsed and convincing. Distraction theft is not limited to ATM transactions. Criminals may also attempt to steal a victim’s PIN code while in line at the grocery store or a retail business.”
“In these cases, the suspects typically follow the victim to the parking lot and attempt to distract them by dropping cash on the ground and insisting it belongs to the victim,” officials said. “This ultimately causes enough of a distraction to allow the suspects to steal the victim’s debit card and make numerous bank withdrawals prior to the victim having knowledge of the theft of the debit card.”
“It is important to remain vigilant when at the ATM or any time you are using a debit card,” continued officials from OCSD. “Always cover the keypad when entering your pin and avoid engaging with strangers while completing your transaction. In addition, be wary of strangers approaching you for any reason while walking to your car or leaving a retail store. If someone approaches you, make sure to keep your distance and do not allow any stranger within arm’s reach.”
“If you believe you are a victim of a distraction theft or any type of crime, please report it to the OC Sheriff’s Department or your local law enforcement agency immediately.”
The Orange County Sheriff’s Department operates across multiple locations throughout Orange County as part of its efforts in public safety initiatives such as patrols and investigations official website. The department consists of nearly 4,000 sworn officers and professional staff organized into various commands official website, providing resources like emergency preparedness programs official website. Its work focuses on protecting residents through impartial law enforcement guided by integrity and respect official website.
