Suspect installed and retrieved skimming equipment at Neighbors FCU drive-thru ATM

PORT ALLEN — The West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff's Office is asking for public help identifying a suspect who installed ATM skimming equipment at Neighbors Federal Credit Union, potentially compromising multiple members' bank accounts.

The unidentified male placed the skimming device on the drive-up ATM at the Port Allen credit union just after 9:30 PM on July 2nd, then returned four days later around 9:00 PM on July 6th to remove the equipment, according to WBRSO.

Discovery and Impact

Credit union officials became aware of the security breach after members reported unauthorized charges and compromised cards. The skimming device would have been capable of capturing card data and PIN numbers from customers using the drive-thru ATM during the four-day period.

Sheriff Jeff Bergeron is encouraging anyone who used the Neighbors FCU ATM between July 2nd and July 6th to immediately check their bank accounts for suspicious activity.

How Skimming Works

ATM skimmers are devices that criminals attach to legitimate ATMs to steal card data. The devices typically include a card reader that captures information from the magnetic stripe and a hidden camera or overlay keypad to record PIN numbers. Victims often don't realize their information has been stolen until unauthorized transactions appear on their accounts.

Public Safety Response

The Sheriff's Office has released surveillance images of the suspect and is requesting anyone who recognizes the individual to come forward. The investigation remains active as detectives work to identify the suspect and determine the full scope of potential victims.

Credit union members who discover unauthorized transactions should immediately contact their financial institution and file a police report.

How to Report Information

Anyone with information about the suspect's identity can contact WBRSO Detectives at:

• 225-382-5200
• 225-343-9234

Anonymous tips can be submitted to Capital Region Crime Stoppers at 225-344-STOP (7867). Callers remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Prevention Tips

Law enforcement reminds residents to:

• Inspect ATMs for unusual devices or attachments before use
• Cover your hand when entering PIN numbers
• Monitor bank accounts regularly for unauthorized transactions
• Report suspicious ATM activity immediately

The Sheriff's Office continues investigating the incident and working with the credit union to ensure member security.

This is a developing story. Check WBRIndependent.com for updates.

#WBRIndependent