A Miami man has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for his involvement in a scheme that placed card skimming devices on grocery store payment terminals in central Alabama. The sentencing was announced by Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson.
Yosniel Sotomayor Rodriguez, 40, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully use a counterfeit access device. After completing his prison term, Rodriguez will serve three years of supervised release. Federal sentences do not allow for parole.
“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.”
Resident Agent in Charge Todd Haralson with the U.S. Secret Service Montgomery Resident Office commented on the investigation: “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. 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.”
Court records show that in May 2024 a regional grocery store chain found four card skimming devices installed at stores in Montgomery, Prattville, and Millbrook. Investigators determined that approximately 221 unique card numbers were stolen as a result of these devices.
Rodriguez managed to install these devices by distracting store employees while placing them over existing payment terminals without being noticed. The devices were discovered and removed before any stolen account information could be used.
Rodriguez pleaded guilty on October 20, 2025.
The United States Secret Service led the investigation with assistance from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Megan A. Kirkpatrick prosecuted the case.
