Two Venezuelan nationals residing in Miami, Robert R. Rosales Rivero and Geniver Antonio Pinuela Testa, are accused of perpetrating an “ATM jackpotting” scheme that netted them over $100,000. In September 2024, they allegedly targeted four Isabella Bank branches across four Michigan counties, manipulating ATMs to dispense cash. Rivero has since been charged federally with bank theft and conspiracy, facing up to 15 years in prison, while Testa is currently a fugitive with outstanding warrants.
The sophisticated “ATM jackpotting” method involved removing an ATM’s cover with a key, disabling sensors with glue, and infecting the hard drive with malware to force cash dispersal.
Surveillance footage from the Isabella Bank thefts on September 22, 2024, showed one man on an electric scooter opening the machines and installing devices, while a second man with a phone and keyboard would then compel the ATMs to release funds. The duo operated efficiently, leaving no immediate evidence of tampering, and successfully stole $107,635 from the four locations.
Investigators used various techniques to identify the suspects, including facial recognition software, which helped them pinpoint Testa.
They also linked a silver 2011 Toyota Yaris, registered to Testa and previously cited in Wisconsin, to the crime scenes. Further evidence included Facebook photos of Testa in similar clothing to one of the perpetrators and cell tower data placing his phone near one of the holdups, building a strong case against the duo.
The alleged criminal activity extended beyond Michigan. On October 6, another jackpotting incident occurred at a Lakeview Bank ATM in Minnesota, resulting in a loss of $14,400. This led to police locating Testa’s Yaris at a Super 8 Hotel in Shakopee, Minnesota, on October 11. A subsequent traffic stop and search of their vehicle and hotel room uncovered incriminating evidence, including the electric scooter, ATM keys, superglue, cash, and electronic devices.
Testa and Rivero were initially charged in Minnesota in October with felony theft, but both posted bond and subsequently failed to appear for court hearings, leading to bench warrants. Rivero was apprehended and appeared in federal court in Michigan on July 10, 2025, where he was ordered detained. Testa, however, remains at large, with his current whereabouts unknown as of mid-July 2025.
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