Alleged Credit Card Theft and Gift Card Spree Lead to Arrest

A woman identified as Maryorie Fernández ormeño, also known as “Guadalupe Maldonado Salinas,” a 36-year-old Chilean national, has been apprehended by U.S. law enforcement in connection with a scheme involving a stolen credit card. The arrest occurred after allegations surfaced that she used the stolen card to purchase gift cards in Glen Carbon, Illinois.

Details of the Alleged Crime

According to judicial documents, Fernández Ormeño is accused of stealing a credit card from a woman’s bag at a Schnucks supermarket in Edwardsville. The subsequent activity on the card raised red flags, leading to an investigation and her eventual arrest.

“People who enter the US illegally and steal in our communities will be processed with the entire weight of the law.”

Steven D. Weinhoeft,Federal prosecutor

Gift Card Purchases and Attempted Transactions

Authorities allege that on February 18th,Fernández Ormeño used the stolen credit card to make purchases totaling $2,684.24 at a Sam’s Club in Glen Carbon. These purchases were reportedly for gift cards. Furthermore, she is accused of attempting another transaction at the same location for $2,477.76,which was unsuccessful.

the popularity of gift card fraud continues to rise,with losses reaching millions annually. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), gift cards are frequently used in scams due to their untraceable nature, making them an attractive target for criminals.

deportation History and Federal Charges

Adding to the severity of the situation, it has been revealed that Fernández Ormeño was previously deported from the United States on October 2, 2023.Consequently, she now faces charges related to illegal re-entry into the country, in addition to the fraud charges.

The U.S.Department of Justice is pursuing federal charges that include access device fraud, illegal re-entry after deportation, and two counts of aggravated identity theft.

Potential Penalties

The potential penalties for the charges against Fernández Ormeño are notable. Aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory two-year federal prison sentence. Conspiracy to commit access device fraud can result in a prison term of up to five years, while illegal re-entry after deportation carries a potential two-year sentence.

Legal Ramifications and Ongoing Investigation

The case is currently being prosecuted at the federal level. The investigation is ongoing,and further details may emerge as the legal proceedings unfold. This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat fraud and enforce immigration laws.