ROGHAN, N.Y. — Authorities are investigating an attempted theft of an automated teller machine at a Northern Credit Union branch in Croghan early Monday after suspects unsuccessfully tried to pull the machine from its foundation using a pickup truck, according to reporting by WWNY.
Lewis County Sheriff Mike Carpinelli told the television station that at least two people attempted to steal the ATM outside the credit union’s Main Street branch at about 4 a.m.
Investigators said the suspects wrapped a chain around the ATM and attached it to a pickup truck in an effort to pull the machine free. The attempt failed when either the chain broke or the truck became disabled, Carpinelli told WWNY.
The suspects abandoned the pickup truck at the scene and fled in a second pickup truck. WWNY reported there were unconfirmed reports that the second vehicle had been stolen, although Carpinelli declined to comment on those reports.
Video Circulates on Social Media
Video of the attempted theft has circulated on social media and is assisting investigators in identifying the suspects, according to the sheriff. The New York State Police are assisting in the investigation.
In a statement issued Monday afternoon, Northern Credit Union said the damaged ATM was immediately taken out of service after the incident was discovered. The credit union also temporarily closed its Croghan Relationship Center on Monday.
Northern Credit Union said there is no indication that member account information was compromised. The credit union encouraged members to monitor their accounts and promptly report any suspicious activity.
No arrests had been announced as of Monday afternoon.
