A California DSS and Kern County DA investigation

“Protecting EBT resources meant to assist families is important to taxpayers, the assistance programs, the families that need help and to our communities.  Kudos to those involved in this investigation and sting operation.”

– CSLEA President Alan Barcelona

BAKERSFIELD -On January 2, 2025, the Kern County District Attorney’s Office and the California Department of Social Services EBT Fraud and Theft Detection Unit conducted a sting operation targeting individuals using skimming devices and fraudulent EBT cards to conduct fraudulent ATM withdrawals in Kern County.

Investigators were monitoring EBT activity in the Bakersfield area and identified a subject fraudulently withdrawing funds from an ATM in the South Bakersfield area. Investigators immediately responded to the area and arrested Norbert Karaba, 34, for several felony charges including money laundering, grand theft, identity theft, theft by false pretenses, and fraudulent use of a credit card. According to the Kern County District Attorney’s Office, investigators located and seized 78 cloned EBT cards and cash totaling $63,952.

In December 2024, the Department of Social Services Skims and Analysis Report showed that there was over $232,972 in stolen EBT benefits in Kern County.

District Attorney Cynthia Zimmer commented, “A system meant to support families in need is being exploited by individuals driven by greed. This illegal activity not only undermines vital assistance programs but also harms vulnerable communities. Our office, in collaboration with our partner agencies, has made it a priority to dismantle these organized crime rings and protect those who rely on this crucial support.”