TEMPE, AZ – In an unexpected twist befitting a crime drama, a video game controller has become a pivotal clue in solving a daring ATM robbery spree across multiple states. The investigation led to the arrest of three men in Houston, Texas, as Tempe police, aided by the FBI, unraveled the case through a series of technological breadcrumbs.
The drama began on a seemingly ordinary morning in November 2024 at a Bank of America in Tempe. Surveillance footage captured two men brazenly robbing an ATM, exploiting the moment when technicians were servicing the machine. The suspects seized the opportunity, requesting the technicians to leave before making off with cash cassettes containing nearly $280,000.
The stolen cassettes held a secret weapon: GPS tracking. Tempe officers quickly utilized this technology to trace the cassettes’ journey. Within an hour, they located a rental car abandoned with the cassettes inside. But the real breakthrough came from an unexpected source—a PlayStation 5 console and its controller found in the vehicle.
Investigators tapped into the gaming device, extracting account details that linked them to social media profiles. These digital footprints led directly to the suspects, providing the police with crucial identifications. Additionally, dashcam footage from the getaway car further cemented their presence at the crime scene.
The suspects, identified as Maurice Brooks, Michael Lazaro, and Anthony Smith, were apprehended by the FBI in Houston. Authorities believe the trio is responsible for similar heists in other states, employing a consistent modus operandi of targeting ATMs and absconding with the cash cassettes.
Police are reminding the public to remain vigilant when using ATMs. “Be aware of your surroundings and ensure no one is following you,” urged a Tempe police spokesperson, highlighting the importance of personal safety in such situations.
The investigation continues as two suspects have been extradited back to Arizona, with the third awaiting transfer. This case serves as a reminder of how modern technology, even something as innocuous as a video game console, can play a crucial role in law enforcement’s efforts to crack down on crime.