Detroit Lakes (trfnews.i234.me) — Four men are charged after police say they tried to break into and hack an ATM at Midwest Bank in Detroit Lakes.
Investigators say the group tried a method known as “jackpotting.” The method targets the ATM’s internal computer. Police say it can make the machine spit out cash.
What the police say happened
Court records say the attempted theft happened on Sunday, Feb. 1. Police received a tip about suspicious activity at the ATM.
Investigators say the ATM showed unusual error codes. They also say a panel had been pried open. Marks were left on the machine.
Court documents also describe a large duffel bag found near the ATM. The bag reportedly contained equipment, including a keyboard.
Who is charged
Authorities charged four men with felony unauthorized computer access. The defendants are:
- Anthony Sanchez-Paez
- Sneyder Yoris Torres
- Alejandro Vasquez
- Leybnis Infante Centeno
According to court documents, Sanchez-Paez and Torres are accused of prying open the machine. Vasquez is accused of acting as a lookout. Infante Centeno is accused of being the driver.
Bank response and service impact
Midwest Bank CEO Steve Daggett said the fast police response stood out. He said officers caught the attempt while it was still happening.
Daggett said customers were not impacted. The ATM remains out of service while repairs are made.
Customers can still access cash through other bank options. Online and mobile banking tools are also available through the bank. Visit Midwest Bank for updates and service options.
What “jackpotting” means
“Jackpotting” is an ATM attack that uses physical access plus tech tools. The goal is to control the cash-dispense function. The U.S. Secret Service has warned banks about these attacks. Learn more here: U.S. Secret Service guidance.
What happens next
If convicted, the men could face up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $20,000, or both.
The charge is tied to Minnesota’s unauthorized computer access law. You can read the statute here: Minnesota Statute 609.891.
For case updates, the public can search Minnesota Court Records Online here: MCRO Case Search.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.