Detectives from the Economic Crime Unit of the [US] VI Police Department on Friday, August 11, 2023, arrested two individuals, identified as Luis Arias Alvarez, 26, and Daymarie Roque-Guerrero, 21, on charges related to an elaborate scheme defrauding Banco Popular customers out of a total of $71,000. Photo: VIPD

The investigation, which commenced on Wednesday, August 9, unveiled an intricate plot where the duo exploited the Retiro Movil Platform for online banking. Surveillance footage from Banco Popular in Orange Grove, Sunshine Mall, and the Sunny Isles Branches on St Croix showed Alvarez and Roque-Guerrero making unauthorized withdrawals from ATM machines. They gained illicit access to the Mi Banco Online platform and drained funds from accounts without the account holders' consent.

On Friday, a tip-off alerted the Economic Crime Unit detectives that Alvarez was spotted near the Banco Popular, Orange Grove Branch. He was observed leaving the vicinity and heading towards Pueblo Golden Rock. Acting on this information, officers promptly detained him. Around the same time, Roque-Guerrero was apprehended at her residence, located at #240 Estate Richmond. Both were taken into custody without any altercation.

Duo offered $20K bail

Both suspects now face multiple charges including grand larceny, obtaining money by false pretenses, identity theft, and access to computer for fraudulent purposes. After being processed at the Wilbur H. Francis Police Operation Building in Frederiksted, Alvarez and Roque-Guerrero were presented before the court. The bail for the pair was set at a combined amount of $20,000.

While Alvarez remains in custody at the John A. Bell Adult Correctional Facility after failing to post bail, Roque-Guerrero was released on a 10 percent bond amounting to $2,005. This bond was approved by Judge Alphonso G. Andrews.

Both individuals are set to appear for their advise of rights hearing on Monday, August 14 at 9:00 a.m. at the [US] VI Superior Court on St Croix.

The [US] VI Police Department said it continues its rigorous efforts in combating economic crimes and ensuring the security of its residents. The community is reminded to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.