Two jailed after attempted early morning ATM heist

Early on the morning of Oct. 16, two Venezuelan nationals were arrested in Albany after an attempted theft from the Clear Fork Bank drive-through ATM. Deputies from the Shackelford County Sheriff’s Office responded within minutes after several concerned citizens called 911 to report suspicious activity at the bank.

When officers arrived around 3:40 a.m., they discovered multiple suspects involved in the theft. Two men, identified as Luis Jose Olivares Davila and Silva Guette Eliober, were taken into custody as they attempted to leave the scene. A second vehicle and additional individuals were spotted nearby and are believed to be connected to the incident.

Authorities said the suspects used a method known as “ATM jackpotting,” a sophisticated and increasingly common form of theft that forces a machine to dispense cash as if it had “hit the jackpot.” The high-tech scheme typically requires direct access to the ATM’s internal hardware, where thieves connect external devices or install malicious software to override normal operations. Once compromised, the machine can be tricked into releasing large amounts of cash without authorization, often in a matter of minutes.

Investigators believe the suspects may have gained access to the ATM using a universal key. Authorities have not confirmed whether cash was removed from the machine.

“ATM thefts have become an unfortunate trend that banks across the region are experiencing,” said Randall Palmore, Clear Fork Bank president. “We’re grateful to law enforcement for their quick and effective response in apprehending the suspects. Their swift action reflects the strong partnership and commitment to safety in our community.”

Bond for Eliober was set at $208,500, while Olivares Davila’s bond was set at $200,000.

The investigation remains active as law enforcement reviews surveillance footage and pursues additional leads. The Sheriff’s Office said more arrests may follow as evidence continues to develop.