Former Olympic athlete from Moldova among suspects held in La Crosse on fraud charges

A pair of men with foreign backgrounds have been spending a few days in the La Crosse County jail, facing charges of fraudulently trying to get money from automatic teller machines.

Vadim Vacarciuc and Ivan Bordian appeared before La Crosse Judge Mark Huesmann on Friday, and they’re due back in court Wednesday.

A Russian interpreter was used to translate for the two suspects during their initial appearance.

According to jail records, both men live in Illinois, but Vacarciuc reportedly has served in the Moldovan parliament, and has ties to government officials there. Vacarciuc also has been a competitive weightlifter.

Because of those ties, Vacarciuc is considered a flight risk and was given a $10,000 cash bond.

Bordian was granted a signature bond, but also remains in jail.

Court records indicate that they face charges in Rock County.

They’re both accused of unauthorized use of an ID or personal documents.

Both men have been ordered to stay away from Kwik Trip stores and cash machines.