Arrest after ATMs tampered with

A man has been arrested following a sophisticated scheme in which ATMs were prevented from dispensing cash to customers.

In late June, an ATM technician contacted police after responding to several reports of cash machines not working in various areas of Guelph.

The technician discovered “cash traps” had been installed on the machines. These devices exactly mimic the cash dispenser doors and were applied with double-sided tape, causing withdrawn cash to be trapped between the dispenser and the fake door. Suspects then returned to remove the trap and collect the cash stuck inside before reapplying the trap.

The Guelph Police Service is aware of at least six banks across the city where the devices were temporarily installed on ATMs. At least $4,400 is known to have been stolen.

Guelph Police Service investigators worked with colleagues at a number of police services investigating similar incidents.

On Monday a 52-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested and returned to Guelph. He is charged with nine counts of theft under $5,000 and seven counts of mischief under $5,000. He was held for a bail hearing and has been remanded in custody to appear in court September 21. The investigation is ongoing.