Man accused of using re-encoded credit cards at Louisville gas stations
LOUISVILLE, KY (WAVE) - A credit card skimming investigation has ended with a man behind bars.
According to the arrest citation, Martinez Carmenate, 32, allegedly made transactions totaling $3,500 using re-encoded credit cards at approximately 35 Thorntons and Speedway stores in Louisville and surrounding areas. Officers say Carmenate had been using the cards since Sept. 25.
[SLIDESHOW: Mugshot Roundup - November 2015]
Martinez used a hidden fuel tank in the back of his truck capable of holding at least 100 gallons of fuel, according to authorities.
On Wednesday, an LMPD detective attempted to pull Martinez over after he failed to signal when turning onto Mt. Washington Road. Martinez continued to drive at a slow speed despite the officer's lights and siren, the arrest citation said.
When the detective pulled up next to Carmenate's vehicle, he noticed Carmenate was removing credit cards and gift cards from his wallet and reaching towards the floorboard areas as he was driving. Police say when Martinez eventually stopped, the detective saw him trying to hide what was a credit card with his name on it and a gift card under his body.
Police say the cards were found to be wiped of all information with a large magnet officers found in the area.
Fuel in the tank of Carmenate's vehicle had allegedly been purchased using stolen credit card numbers.
Martinez was arrested and charged with failing to signal, tampering with physical evidence, false making or embossing of credit card and receiving stolen property.
Copyright 2015 WAVE 3 News. All rights reserved.