A New Jersey man was taken into custody on July 3 in connection with alleged credit card fraud. Police say that they expect to make more arrests. The alleged fraud occurred at approximately 6:30 pm on June 25 when a man called Audio Video Synergy on Main Street in Clinton. The store’s manager said the caller used a credit card to purchase a set of $600 speakers.
Store employees called police after they processed the order and learned that the cardholder’s identity had been stolen. The store owner told police that the caller expected more items to be shipped. Police then traveled to Trenton, where they found a 26-year-old man who was waiting for the additional items. He was charged with identity theft and theft by deception. Police said the investigation is ongoing and that they expect to make additional arrests.
Identity theft and credit card charges are serious, and convictions can lead to severe penalties, including jail time, fines and probation. If found guilty, accused individuals may also have to repay any damages inflicted. Although the charges are serious, convictions are not automatic. Accused individuals have the right to present a defense in court.
An attorney with criminal defense experience could help an accused individual prepare and present a defense to avoid conviction. The attorney could introduce supporting evidence and question witnesses to bolster the defense’s case. The attorney could also facilitate cooperation between the accused and investigators if other individuals may be involved in the alleged crime. If a conviction can’t be avoided, the attorney may be able to negotiate a plea with prosecutors that would lead to reduced charges and penalties.