Romanian nationals sentenced in ATM skimming scheme across Oklahoma

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Authorities say three Romanian nationals have been sentenced for their roles in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

In January of 2025, law enforcement officials say 37-year-old Sebastian Bulacu, 42-year-old Florin Radu, and 36-year-old Valentin Alexandru traveled throughout the Oklahoma City area to install “skimming” devices on ATMs.

‘Skimmers’ are designed to capture debit card information and record customers’ PIN numbers, allowing the suspects to access victims’ bank accounts.

In all, officials claim the three caused $193,598 in losses across the country, including in Oklahoma, to unsuspecting victims.

Bulacu, Radu, and Alexandru pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.

At sentencing, a U.S. District Court judge sentenced Bulacu and Radu to serve 51 months each in federal prison. Alexandru was sentenced to 41 months in prison.

Each defendant was also ordered to pay $193,598 in restitution.