Two Arrested After 'Card Skimmers' Found on Area Gas Pumps

Redlands Police arrested two people Monday for attempted fraudulent use of account information, possession of stolen property, and possession of a skimming device. The arrests followed an investigation after devices known as “card skimmers” were found attached to gas pumps at two local businesses. On Friday, June 6, employees at two gas stations discovered the skimming devices, which intercept credit and debit card information when a card is inserted into the card reader. The devices were found attached to pump No. 10 at the Unocal 76 station on the corner of Sixth Street and Redlands Boulevard and pump No. 12 at the 7-Eleven station on the corner of Tennessee Street and Lugonia Avenue. Police disabled the skimmers and began a surveillance operation in order to identify the suspects when they returned to retrieve the devices. Police Explorers distributed fliers to other local gas stations informing them of the possibility that pumps may have been tampered with and similar devices installed. No other businesses have contacted police. On Monday, June 9, police stopped a vehicle leaving the 7-Eleven and located the skimming device inside the vehicle. Officers arrested the driver, Oscar Manuel Meza, 37, of San Bernardino, and Jose Antonio Ramirez, 33, also of San Bernardino. Police warn residents to use caution when paying for gas at the pump using a credit or debit card. When possible, go inside and pay the cashier rather than paying directly at the pump. If necessary, use a pump that is clearly visible to employees and if you notice any damage or broken seals on the pump, do not use it and report it to an employee. Anyone who used either of the tampered pumps between Thursday night and Friday afternoon is asked to contact Detective Eddie Herrera at (909) 798-7673.