A Georgetown-area security guard was charged in connection with a “a highly sophisticated” identification theft and fraud ring that ripped off more than 200 victims to pay for other people’s bills, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
Dawn Marshall, of the District, was charged with fraud, aggravated identity theft, mail fraud and conspiracy. If convicted, she could face more than 30 years in prison.
According to an arrest affidavit signed by an investigator with the District of Columbia’s Office of the Inspector General, the network was organized by a 48-year-old District woman. She has not yet been charged, according to court records.
Prosecutors said Marshall was a leader in the scheme. She stole people’s identities and bank account information from the mail, a medical office in Northwest Washington, and Johnson’s Flower Shop locations in D.C. and Kensington.
The conspirators then opened up fraudulent lines of credit that they used to enrich themselves and spend on others.
The ring paid off other people’s bills, parking tickets and other goods. They would then charge these “customers” half the total bill or merchandise.
In all, between December 2006 and March 2010, the conspirators made at least 765 fraudulent transactions, stealing at least $365,00, the affidavit said.
When investigators searched Marshall’s home, they discovered another person’s stolen checkbook and a sheet of paper with Social Security numbers and bank account information. They also found a stack of credit card statements. The statements were in other people’s names but mailed to Marshall’s home.
When questioned, Marshall told police that she conspired with the 48-year-old to receive packages for on-line purchases at her residence. In exchange, woman paid some of Marshall’s bills and bought her clothes, prosecutors said.
