Los Angeles Man Charged in $13,000 EBT Fraud Scheme
Authorities Recover Tools Associated with EBT Skimming Operations
A 27-year-old man has been charged with stealing thousands of dollars in California public assistance benefits using fraudulent Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards at a Lancaster ATM, Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced Thursday morning.
The suspect, Ioannis Alecsopoulos, was apprehended on February 1 during an undercover operation. Authorities allege that Alecsopoulos withdrew over $4,000 and attempted to withdraw more than $13,000 using nine different EBT cards. Investigators say he used electronic skimming devices to steal EBT account information, which allowed him to fraudulently access funds.
EBT Card Fraud: A Growing Problem in California
During the arrest, law enforcement recovered multiple tools associated with EBT skimming operations, including nine skimming devices, 94 re-encoded gift cards, and eight pinhole cameras, according to authorities.
Alecsopoulos was arraigned on February 4, with bail set at $500,000. He has been charged with 10 counts of felony identity theft, three counts of felony grand theft, and one misdemeanor charge of obstructing a law enforcement officer. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in state prison.
Consequences of EBT Fraud
The case underscores a growing problem in California, where EBT fraud has led to more than $100 million in stolen funds over the past year, according to the California Department of Social Services.
“EBT theft cruelly robs vulnerable individuals of the public benefits they are legally entitled to. In addition to directly taking critical financial assistance away from children, families, and the elderly, public assistance fraud steals from taxpayers,” said Hochman.
Protecting Yourself from EBT Fraud
Authorities are urging EBT cardholders to stay alert for scams involving text messages, emails, card skimming, and fraudulent websites. Officials warn that neither the County nor the state will ever ask for a card number or PIN. To minimize risk, EBT users are advised to update their PIN monthly.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office will continue to investigate and prosecute cases of EBT fraud, holding offenders fully accountable for their criminal actions. By staying informed and taking steps to protect themselves, EBT cardholders can help prevent fraud and ensure that public assistance benefits are used as intended.
FAQs
* What is EBT fraud?
EBT fraud is the illegal use of Electronic Benefits Transfer cards to fraudulently access public assistance benefits.
* What is the impact of EBT fraud?
EBT fraud can have a significant impact on vulnerable individuals, taking away critical financial assistance and resources.
* How can I protect myself from EBT fraud?
Stay alert for scams, update your PIN monthly, and never share your card number or PIN with anyone.
* What is being done to combat EBT fraud?
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office is working to investigate and prosecute cases of EBT fraud, and authorities are urging EBT cardholders to stay informed and take steps to protect themselves.
