Six Accused Of Stealing Identities Of Florida Seniors

MIAMI (CBSMiami) - Six people suspected of stealing the personal information of more than 100 victims, including dozens of Florida seniors, have been arrested, according to the office of Florida's Attorney General Ashley Moody.

Investigators say Samishia Askew, Gregory Engram, Carnessa Rouse, Towan Rush, Donta White and Valisha Williams used the victims' personal information to obtain scores of credit cards from multiple banks.

Authorities said losses totaled more than $650,000. PCSO took Williams, the final defendant arrested, into custody earlier this week.

Attorney General Ashley Moody said, "I am outraged that anyone would target Florida seniors in this way—stealing their identities to open fraudulent credit card accounts. We will not allow criminal organizations to prey on seniors in Florida, and my Office of Statewide Prosecution will continue to partner with our great law enforcement agencies to stop fraud and ensure those that would exploit Floridians—especially our seniors—will face justice."

Authorities said the defendants allegedly purchased the personal information of the victims online and then applied for credit cards that were sent to various addresses in Florida. Once acquired, the defendants listed themselves or aliases as authorized users for the credit cards. The defendants also owned fraudulent driver's licenses that could be produced when needed.

The defendants used the stolen credit cards to purchase merchandise, pay rent and utility bills, rent luxury cars, buy airplane tickets, rent hotel rooms and obtain cash, authorities said.