Credit card numbers stolen at gas stations in Louisville, Superior

BOULDER COUNTY, Colo. -- Credit card and debit card numbers were stolen from two gas stations in the last three weeks, according to the Boulder County Sheriff's Office.

Investigators believe at least 136 credit card numbers were stolen and three to four dozen commercial businesses were victimized when the cloned credit cards were used to buy merchandise. The losses are estimated at least $11,000.

The investigation started after two credit card skimming devices were found July 8 inside pay-at-the-pump consoles at the Conoco in Superior during routine maintenance, deputies said.

Investigators said two more skimming devices were located at the Louisville Conoco gas station on S. McCaslin Blvd. on July 20.

"Skimming devices capture account holder information from a credit card when a card holder swipes their card in a compromised card-reader," deputies said. "The information is later downloaded from the skimming device and is cloned to a credit card often containing a suspect's embossed name, but with the victim's credit card information on the magnetic strip. The cloned credit card is then used to make fraudulent purchases."

Detectives have arrested Art Arsene Appolon, 37, of Oakland, California, on suspicion of felony theft and identity theft. He's being held on $1 million bond. An arrest warrant has been issued for a second man, officials said.

Anyone who used the pay-at-the-pump console at these gas stations are being warned to monitor their bank and credit card statements and to consider requesting replacement credit and debit cards.

If you find fraudulent transactions, call the Boulder County Sheriff's Office at (303) 441-4444.