Brazen Venezuelan Gang "Jackpots" ATMs Along CT I-95
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
Four Venezuelan nationals are currently in federal custody following their June 25, 2026 arrest, charged with executing a brazen, coordinated "jackpotting" crime spree that targeted southern Connecticut. Over a ten-day period—from August 8 to August 18, 2025—this mobile crew used specialized hardware and malware to override security systems, illegally draining $529,220 from local ATMs.
The Targeted Route
Operating as a highly professional mobile unit, the gang mapped out a tight loop designed to exploit our local infrastructure. They aggressively targeted the I-95 service plazas in Darien, where they made off with over $177,000, before executing a single massive $136,000 haul just up the road at the Fairfield rest stop. From there, the crew expanded their loop deeper into New Haven County, successfully hitting ATMs along the highway in Milford, Branford, and Madison, while only being thwarted at a final location in Ansonia because of a recent software security patch.
Surveillance photos in the criminal complaint allegedly show the men taking turns taking out the wads of cash as it was spewed from the compromised ATMs. Other pictures taken by the suspects themselves allegedly show piles of cash in the backseat of the silver Toyota Highlander used in the heists.
Federal Intervention
This case isn't being handled as a routine local theft; it is being aggressively prosecuted under a specialized Homeland Security Task Force initiative specifically designed to dismantle foreign syndicates and transnational criminal organizations operating inside U.S. borders.
Between the Lines: For Greenwich residents, the Fairfield and Darien service plazas are familiar, everyday stops. The fact that a transnational ring can seamlessly deploy to our immediate area, exploit local infrastructure, and siphon over half a million dollars before disappearing highlights a growing vulnerability. Stay vigilant.