Lancaster EBT Fraud Bust Highlights Growing Threat to Public Assistance Funds
On February 6, 2025, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman announced charges against 27-year-old Ioannis Alecsopoulos for allegedly stealing thousands of dollars from Californians relying on public assistance. Prosecutors say he used fraudulent Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards at an ATM in Lancaster, and he’s now facing multiple felony counts of identity theft and grand theft, among other charges.
Investigators caught Alecsopoulos on February 1 during an EBT Anti-Skimming Operation. They say he tried to withdraw over $13,000 and successfully withdrew more than $4,000 using nine fake EBT cards. Officials believe he used electronic skimming devices to capture EBT account information, later transferring that data onto re-encoded gift cards. Inside his possession, authorities reportedly found nine skimming devices, 94 re-encoded gift cards, and eight pinhole cameras—tools commonly used to steal card info at ATMs and other payment terminals.
At his arraignment on February 4, his bail was increased to $500,000, and a review is set for February 10. If convicted, Alecsopoulos could face up to 10 years in state prison. Prosecutors emphasize the impact of these crimes on vulnerable populations—children, families, and the elderly—who rely on public benefits to make ends meet. District Attorney Hochman also warned that such fraud hurts taxpayers at large, pledging that his office will hold offenders fully accountable.
Authorities urge EBT card holders to stay vigilant, noting that they should never share their PIN or card number by phone, text, or email. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) also recommends changing PINs monthly, covering card numbers at ATMs, and watching for suspicious devices like pinhole cameras and skimmers. So far, more than $100 million in EBT benefits have been stolen across California, much of it in Los Angeles County alone.
In a separate, larger operation this February, Homeland Security Investigations and other partners arrested 11 foreign nationals on related EBT theft charges, recovering over 300 cloned cards and $30,000 in cash. As with all cases, every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
Family-Friendly Ways to Stay Informed in the Antelope Valley
Local Workshops on Fraud Prevention: Look for events hosted by the LA County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) or nonprofit groups at community centers in Lancaster and Palmdale. These sessions often include tips on safeguarding EBT cards and spotting scam devices.
Free Legal Aid and Support Clinics: Organizations like Neighborhood Legal Services of Los Angeles County provide guidance for those who suspect they’ve been victims of fraud.
Community Resource Fairs: Keep an eye on listings for resource fairs at venues like the Antelope Valley Mall or Palmdale City Hall, where you can learn about financial assistance programs and ways to protect your family’s benefits.
Neighborhood Watch Programs: Participating in local watch groups or attending crime prevention meetings at the Lancaster Sheriff’s Station can help you stay ahead of emerging scams.
By remaining alert and proactive, local residents can better protect themselves and their families against fraudulent activities. It’s everyone’s responsibility to help each other spot potential scams, support neighbors who’ve been affected, and continue building a safer, more resilient Antelope Valley.
