3 Men Accused of Credit Card Skimming at Hewitt Gas Station

Authorities say the suspects placed devices inside payment terminals to steal customer information.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:50pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a credit card skimming device, its metallic components and circuit board details sharply illuminated by a harsh camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the gritty, investigative nature of this crime.A hidden credit card skimming device exposes the sophisticated tactics used by organized crime groups to steal financial data from unsuspecting gas station customers.Hewitt Today

Three men were arrested in Hewitt, Texas after an investigator witnessed them allegedly placing credit card skimming devices inside gas pump payment terminals at a local Circle K station. The suspects, Lazono Raul Pinera Rodriguez, Yardanys Castillo, and Sarria Jeilier, are accused of being part of a group that has targeted multiple Circle K locations across Texas.

Why it matters

Credit card skimming at gas stations is an ongoing issue that can lead to widespread fraud and identity theft, causing significant financial harm to consumers. This case highlights the sophisticated methods used by organized criminal groups to steal payment information and the importance of gas station owners and law enforcement working together to combat this type of criminal activity.

The details

According to the affidavit, an investigator was conducting surveillance on a white Honda CRV when he witnessed the three suspects pull into the Circle K station. Jeilier was seen moving between the backseat and the payment terminal, appearing to work on the device. The vehicle then moved to another pump, where Jeilier and Castillo approached the terminal. After the suspects left, the investigator found skimming devices installed in both pump terminals.

  • The incident occurred around 1 p.m. on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.
  • The suspects were taken into custody following the investigation.

The players

Lazono Raul Pinera Rodriguez

One of the three suspects arrested in connection with the credit card skimming incident at the Hewitt gas station.

Yardanys Castillo

One of the three suspects arrested in connection with the credit card skimming incident at the Hewitt gas station.

Sarria Jeilier

One of the three suspects arrested in connection with the credit card skimming incident at the Hewitt gas station. Authorities say he was seen working on the payment terminals.

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What’s next

The suspects are currently in custody, and authorities are investigating whether they are part of a larger criminal group that has targeted other gas stations in the region.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing threat of credit card skimming at gas stations and the need for vigilance from both business owners and consumers to protect against financial fraud and identity theft. Authorities are urging the public to regularly inspect gas pump payment terminals for any signs of tampering.