Two Los Angeles County men were arrested Wednesday, Aug. 26, after investigators linked them to at least 15 debit card thefts at Wells Fargo branches and ATMs across San Diego County, including in Carlsbad.

The suspects, ages 40 and 31, allegedly approached customers during routine bank transactions and distracted them by offering to help or pulling their attention away from the ATM, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported. While victims looked away, the men swapped the customer's debit card with a different card, then made a series of withdrawals before the owner noticed.

The scheme worked fast. Losses ranged from $100 to more than $2,700 per victim, according to sheriff's Lt. Patrick Fox.

Investigation began in May

Lemon Grove Sheriff's Station deputies opened the case after receiving multiple theft and fraud reports at local Wells Fargo locations in May. At least five people were victimized in Lemon Grove alone, with confirmed losses totaling approximately $5,990, Fox said in a news release.

Investigators determined that at least 15 similar thefts had occurred elsewhere in San Diego County. Police departments in San Diego, Chula Vista and Carlsbad were each investigating cases. Wells Fargo also reported another 15 cases in Orange and Los Angeles counties.

License plate readers led to arrests

Deputies identified the two men as Los Angeles County residents and used automated license plate readers to track their movements. They also staked out bank branches with help from the San Diego Fugitive Task Force.

On Aug. 26, one of the men allegedly attempted another theft at a Lemon Grove location. Investigators surveilled him and then located the second suspect. Both were taken into custody.

Charges filed

Both men were booked on suspicion of robbery and identity theft. The 31-year-old also faces a conspiracy charge. The 40-year-old was additionally booked on suspicion of elder fraud and resisting a peace officer.

The sheriff's office has not released the suspects' names. No arraignment date has been announced.

The Carlsbad Police Department is among the agencies actively investigating local cases connected to the ring.