MAN CHARGED WITH THEFT FROM ATMs

Allegedly altered gift and debit cards to illegally obtain money

WHEATON - DuPage County State’s Attorney Joe Birkett announced today that thirty year-old Nikolay P. Todorov (d.o.b. 01/22/1979) of 7321 W. Fullerton, Elmwood Park, has been charged with allegedly stealing more than $15,000 from an automatic teller machine (ATM) through the use of altered or counterfeit gift and debit cards.

            It is alleged that Todorov was in possession of more than thirty gift and debit cards that had been altered so that when used, the cards would withdraw money from bank accounts held by someone other than Todorov.  It is further alleged that on October 13, 2009, Todorov used these altered cards to illegally withdraw money from ATMs located at First Bank and Inland Bank, both in Villa Park. Todorov was taken into custody when an employee at First Bank noticed suspicious behavior and alerted authorities at the bank who in turn, contacted the Villa Park Police Department.

            “White collar crimes are often times very hard to detect,” remarked Birkett.  “I would like to thank the employees and officials at Inland Bank for their assistance in this matter.  I would also like to thank the Villa Park Police Department for their thorough investigation and quick apprehension of Mr. Todorov.”

            In all, Todorov faces one count of Continuing a Financial Crimes Enterprise – a Class 1 Felony, one count of Wire Fraud – a Class 3 Felony and three counts of Theft by Deception – a Class 3 Felony.  He appeared in Bond Court this morning where Judge Peter Ostling set his bond at $100,000 with 10% to apply.  His next court appearance is scheduled for November 9 in front of Judge George Bakalis.

            Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt.  A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

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