Two Venezuelan nationals, Moises Alejandro Martinez Gutierrez and Lestter Guerrero, have been charged with conspiracy to commit bank theft in connection with an ATM jackpotting scheme that targeted machines across several New England states. The individuals are alleged members of Tren de Aragua, a criminal organization originating from Venezuela.
Authorities allege that the suspects participated in a series of robberies and attempted robberies involving the installation of malware on ATMs in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. This technique forces ATMs to dispense all their cash.
According to court documents, there is an ongoing federal investigation into a nationwide conspiracy believed to be orchestrated by members of Tren de Aragua (TdA). The organization has reportedly expanded throughout the Western Hemisphere and established operations in the United States. Court filings indicate that TdA engages in various criminal activities such as human smuggling, extortion, drug trafficking, kidnapping, robbery, and specifically ATM jackpotting. Proceeds from these schemes are allegedly divided among participants and sent back to leadership in Venezuela.
Martinez Gutierrez and Guerrero were arrested on February 5, 2026, in Augusta, Maine after an attempted ATM jackpotting incident. Martinez Gutierrez is accused of involvement in at least five additional ATM robberies or attempts across New England between December 2025 and January 2026. Guerrero is also linked to another robbery alongside Martinez Gutierrez.
The charge carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine up to $250,000. Sentencing will be determined by a federal judge according to U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley stated: “The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.” Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division joined Foley in announcing the charges.
Assistance was provided by multiple law enforcement agencies including state police departments from Massachusetts as well as local police departments from cities where incidents occurred.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin J. Brown and Peter K. Levitt are prosecuting the case.