Cunning Criminals Caught in Walmart Scam Spree

In a shocking turn of events, two Michigan men have been accused of orchestrating a complex money card scam that spanned multiple Kentucky counties. Cordell Barnes, 29, and Byron Gaskin, 33, both of Detroit, have been charged with a slew of offenses, including engaging in organized crime, theft by deception, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Uncovering a Sophisticated Scam Scheme

Tricking the System: The Walmart Money Card Scam

The investigation began when the Elizabethtown Police Department alerted the Bowling Green police about the alleged scam carried out by Barnes and Gaskin. According to the authorities, the duo would input money into Walmart registers to purchase and load Visa money cards, only to then trick the system into cancelling the transaction. This allowed them to keep the money, resulting in a significant loss for the stores.The suspects were reported to have conducted these scams at Walmarts in both Elizabethtown and Bowling Green, Kentucky. Their modus operandi was meticulously planned, showcasing their criminal ingenuity.

The Incriminating Evidence

After receiving a description of the suspects' vehicle, officers located Barnes and Gaskin at the Walmart on Morgantown Road in Bowling Green. A search of their vehicle revealed a trove of incriminating evidence, including multiple Visa money cards, a substantial amount of U.S. currency, two bags of marijuana, and numerous Walmart receipts consistent with the scam.The search also uncovered 0 in Barnes's pockets, as well as over ,600 in cash in Gaskin's pockets, further corroborating the extent of their illicit activities. The investigation confirmed that the duo had stolen over ,000 from the Bowling Green Walmarts on a single day.

Facing the Consequences

Barnes and Gaskin were promptly arrested and charged with a litany of offenses, including engaging in organized crime, theft by deception, receiving stolen property, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Both men are currently lodged in the Warren County Jail, awaiting further legal proceedings.The investigation is ongoing, as authorities seek to determine if the suspects were involved in similar scams at stores outside of Warren and Hardin counties. The brazen nature of their crimes and the sophisticated methods employed have left law enforcement officials determined to uncover the full extent of their criminal enterprise.

A Cautionary Tale for Retailers

The Walmart money card scam perpetrated by Barnes and Gaskin serves as a stark reminder of the evolving tactics employed by savvy criminals. Retailers must remain vigilant and implement robust security measures to safeguard against such sophisticated schemes, ensuring the protection of their assets and the integrity of their operations.As the investigation continues, the public can expect further updates on the case, as the justice system works to hold these individuals accountable for their actions and send a clear message that such criminal behavior will not be tolerated.