Miami Man Sentenced for Installing Card Skimmers on Grocery Store Payment Terminals in Central Alabama

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced today that a Miami, Florida, man has been sentenced to federal prison for his role in a scheme to install card skimming devices on grocery store terminals in Alabama's River Region.

On February 25, 2026, a federal judge sentenced 40-year-old Yosniel Sotomayor Rodriguez to 18 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully use a counterfeit access device. Following his term of imprisonment, Rodriguez will serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

"Card skimming devices are designed to blend in, but consumers can protect themselves by staying alert," said Acting United States Attorney Davidson. "Before inserting or swiping your card, take a moment to inspect the card reader. If the keypad feels loose, the card slot appears bulky or misaligned, or any part of the machine appears tampered with, do not use it. Consumers should also monitor their bank statements regularly for unauthorized transactions. I am grateful for the swift work of law enforcement and store personnel whose quick actions led to the removal of the devices before any stolen financial information could be used to harm unsuspecting victims."

"The Secret Service is dedicated to going after those who aim to exploit our financial systems and target innocent victims, especially here in Alabama where folks work hard for every dollar," said Resident Agent in Charge Todd Haralson with the U.S. Secret Service Montgomery Resident Office. "We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners, including the pivotal role played by the ALEA Trooper whose traffic stop set this case in motion. With support from the U.S. Attorney's Office, we will continue to investigate, arrest, and support prosecution of criminals who choose to commit fraud in Alabama and across the nation."

According to Rodriguez's plea agreement and other court records, in May 2024, a regional grocery store chain discovered that four counterfeit access devices, commonly known as card skimming devices, had been installed on point-of-sale terminals at locations in Montgomery, Prattville, and Millbrook. Approximately 221 unique card numbers were stolen.

The investigation revealed that Rodriguez entered the stores and used distractions to conceal his installation of the devices over the payment terminals without detection. The devices were discovered and removed before any stolen account information could be used. On October 20, 2025, Rodriguez pleaded guilty to the conspiracy charge.

The United States Secret Service investigated the case, with assistance from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Megan A. Kirkpatrick prosecuted this case.