In Geneseo on September 21, 2024, a week-long investigation into ATM skimmers culminated in a high-speed chase and the arrest of a 17-year-old suspect. The suspect faces multiple charges, including three counts of fraud and fleeing from law enforcement, and is detained at the Mary Davis Detention Facility in Galesburg. Investigators with the Geneseo Police Department were investigating “skimmers” that were placed on Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) throughout central Illinois. The suspects were able to collect account information from the “chip” on cards with the “skimmer,” and collect the personal identification number from a camera they placed on the machine as well. Farmers National Bank in Geneseo has notified its customers of this attempted breach between the dates of September 18th and 20th, 2024.
Investigators were able to determine the vehicles associated with these crimes and organized a “stakeout” of the victimized ATM in Geneseo. Officers observed the suspect vehicle approaching the ATM where a skimming device had been identified by the bank, and when they attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled from officers. The vehicle fled through Geneseo and turned east onto Interstate 80. The vehicle struck the center median on Highway 82, causing the tires on the driver’s side of the vehicle to flatten. The vehicle continued on I-80 until the vehicle became disabled and the suspect was taken into custody.
The Geneseo Police, assisted by the Henry County Sheriff’s Department and the Illinois State Police, apprehended the juvenile after a vehicle pursuit ended on Interstate 80.
Farmers National Bank released a statement informing customers and the community of the attempted breach after a skimming device was located on the north ATM in Geneseo. “While we have no indication that any fraud has occurred or will occur as a result of this incident, we ask our customers to monitor their accounts and immediately report any suspicious activity to Farmers National Bank. The bank has notified all customers who were involved in the attempted compromise.” For assistance, visit www.farmersnationalbank.bank or call 815-537-2348.