|
 |
 |
| Laredo Ranked 25th In Nation For Identity Theft |
|
| www.pro8news.com/news/local/39825997.html |
|
2/18/2009 - Police are searching for not one but three people who allegedly used stolen credit cards to purchase items at local stores. According to authorities incidences of fraudulent uses of credit cards are one the rise.
In fact a recent report says Laredo is one of the top 25 cities in the nation for identity theft. Police say they've heard the story dozens of times and have even implemented a new process for victims of identity theft all in hopes of helping straighten out credit reports.
Alejo Medina never thought he would be providing fingerprints for an FBI database.
According to the IRS he owes $21,000 in taxes dating back 9 years.
“They told me I owe $21,000 and they say I made $30,000 a year in the year 2000. I was 10 years old,” says Medina.
But this story isn't one of backed taxes. At only 19 years old, Medina has become a victim of identity theft.
Nine years ago someone got a hold of his social security number.
“I remember one teacher was like identity theft. I thought they won’t steal mine.”
These documents from the IRS show this person worked in Illinois however this individual has never been out of state. Police say this is not uncommon.
“It’s very common and on the rise because of tax season,” says Sergeant Chris Baker. “Every time the income tax season comes we get a rush an influx of people coming in.”
Fraudulent uses of credit cards are also on the rise.
Just today Laredo Police released surveillance video of a man allegedly purchasing a flat screen TV with a stolen credit card.
The card was reported lost that same day.
According to a national study to be released this week will show Laredo ranks 25th in the national for identity theft.
Identity Theft 911 reports people living in Texas border towns are victims of identity theft at twice the national rate.
“We do have a big problem here because of the border. We have a lot of people that need documentations like social security cars and id's.” adds Sgt. Baker.
Meanwhile medina says he finally believes what he hears.
“On the news, identity theft identity theft …yeah it does happen.”
Stealing someone’s identity is a state jail felony.
If you recognize any of the people in the surveillance video or think you've been a victim of identity theft please contact Laredo police at 795-2800 as soon as possible.
|
|
|
|
