Yosue Manuel Gonzalez-Moy, a Venezuelan national in the United States illegally, pleaded guilty on Apr. 13 to conspiring to commit bank larceny on behalf of Tren de Aragua, which is designated as a foreign terrorist organization, according to United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr.
The case highlights concerns about criminal activities linked to foreign organizations and their impact within the United States. Authorities say such crimes pose risks not only nationally but also at the community level.
According to prosecutors, Gonzalez-Moy and an accomplice traveled from Illinois to Dexter, Michigan on October 12, 2025 with the intent of breaking into an ATM at Chelsea State Bank. Using a counterfeit key and cordless drill, Gonzalez-Moy attempted to access the machine and install a device that would allow remote control of its cash dispensing system—a method known as “ATM Jackpotting.” The attempt was interrupted by an alarm; while fleeing, his co-conspirator crashed into a tree and later died from injuries sustained in the accident. During questioning after his arrest, Gonzalez-Moy admitted affiliation with Tren de Aragua and said he acted at their request.
United States Attorney Jerome F. Gorgon Jr. said: “People sometimes think that the dangers of illegal immigration are a faraway problem that don’t impact us here at home. Today’s conviction shows this is untrue. Tren de Aragua is a vicious and violent foreign terrorist cartel that has victimized numerous communities throughout the United States. Now they have come to Michigan to do the same. But they will find no sanctuary here.”
Jennifer Runyan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Detroit Field Office said: “Criminals who target financial systems through schemes like ATM Jackpotting will be identified and brought to justice… I want to be clear: No matter the scheme, when there is a federal nexus, the FBI will work with our partners to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle operations of those involved…”
Gonzalez-Moy faces up to five years in prison if convicted.
This prosecution falls under the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative created by Executive Order 14159—Protecting the American People Against Invasion—which brings together multiple agencies focused on dismantling criminal cartels operating both domestically and internationally.
