‘Skimmers’ found at four gas stations in Lee County
Detectives with the Cape Coral Police Department Investigative Service Bureau (Financial Crimes Unit) teamed up with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office Economic Crimes Unit, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for a skimmer operation. This operation took place Thursday and focused on gas stations located in Lee County, which includes the City of Cape Coral.
“It is difficult for citizens to detect illegal skimming devices while they are pumping gas,” a release from the agency states. “The skimmers are placed inside the paneling at the gas pump out of sight, waiting to gather your information from your credit or debit card. Once the information is obtained it can be used for fraudulent purchases.
“Gas stations have placed security seals on the pumps to add protection for their customers. It is recommended not to use the gas pump if the seal does not exist or it appears that it has been tampered with.”
“Joint operations like this one shows the community of Cape Coral that Law Enforcement Agencies are dedicated and determined to catch the bad guys and protect their citizens” officials added.
Ninety-four gasoline stations were checked and four illegal skimming devices were found.
Anyone with information regarding illegal “skimmers” is encouraged to contact the Cape Coral Police Department at 239-574-3223. You can also submit an anonymous tip. Go to www.capecops.com/tips or text a tip-text CCPD+”Your Message” to CRIMES (274637). You can also call the Lee County Sheriff’s Office at 239-477-1000 or Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS (8477).
Source: Cape Coral Police Department