Sheriff’s office searches for man who committed identity theft

Rowan County law enforcement is searching for an unidentified man who stole personal identification details from a North Carolina victim. The man has used this information to make purchases and open accounts in the victim’s name.

The victim reported a case of identity theft to the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office in November.

Suspect opened a bank account with victim’s information

The suspect went to a Fort Sill National Bank in Spring Lake to open multiple credit card accounts and a bank account in the victim’s name. The bank’s cameras captured footage of the suspect at the bank, which the authorities have released to help identify the man.

The accused thief also got a driver’s license and stole a U-Haul

The man in question used the stolen information to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license. He also stands accused of renting and then stealing a U-Haul vehicle to transport items he bought with the victim’s identity. He allegedly used the U-Haul to take home a lawnmower he bought at Bobcat Company in Fayetteville. There was a woman passenger with him when he purchased the mower.

Sheriff is looking for information about his identity

The suspected identity thief continued his buying spree by purchasing electronics at a Sam’s Club in Mooresville. Law enforcement is asking anyone with information to contact the Rowan County Sheriff’s Office.

Anyone who steals another individual’s personalx information and uses it for his or her gain can be charged with identity theft. Personal information includes a driver’s license, social security number or credit card number.

Identity theft is a felony

Those accused of identity theft in North Carolina face serious penalties. Even a first offense is charged as a felony. If convicted, a person may receive up 80 months in jail and be fined up to $50,000. You may also be required to pay the victim restitution for money lost in relation to the crime. This could include attorney fees, lost wages or any fees relating to collection agencies.

To avoid serious criminal and financial penalties, you will want a strong defense strategy against an identity theft charge. Legal assistance can help you uncover law enforcement mistakes or evidence that exonerates you.