As the holidays quickly approach and Californians are making last-minute purchases, they may be afraid of credit card fraud and identity theft. While the concern may be legitimate, they might also be worried that they will be on the other end of the stick, facing criminal accusations. When this is the case, accused individuals should immediately consider their defense options.
Two women find themselves in this position after being taken into custody for allegedly running a massive identity theft scheme. According to police, they were led to the women by reports of suspicious activity at a local business. Upon the police’s arrival, the women are alleged to have fled. Authorities later stopped their vehicle, where it is claimed counterfeit and stolen credit cards and processing equipment was found. The women are now facing several felony charges, including conspiracy and identity theft.
When an individual is accused of identity theft or any other internet crime, the matter is serious. Local and federal prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively, often seeking harsh punishments that can have long-lasting effects. Accused individuals, if convicted, could face years in prison, thousands of dollars in fines, and a criminal record that may haunt them for years or even decades.
Therefore, it is important to put forth the best criminal defense possible to counter an aggressive prosecution. It is imperative, however, to know the law and how to use it to one’s advantage. It is for this reason that criminal defendants may want to consider seeking the assistance of a California defense attorney who knows his or her way through the legal process. With sound legal guidance and a loud advocate, hopefully those accused of such crimes, like the two women mentioned above, find a fair resolution.
Source: NBC San Diego, “2 Arrested in Large-Scale SoCal ID Theft Scheme,” Laura McVicker, Dec. 5, 2014