Monday, May 9, 2016

Fraud Suspects Arrested


Arrested: 

Millan, Stevee M.; 23 year of age male; Portland OR address
Matamoro-Almaguer, Jesus E.; 30 year of age male; Portland, OR address

Charges:  Identity theft, 1st Degree Theft

Synopsis:
On April 19, 20, 23 and 24 two males came through the Tri-Cities and used bank account numbers skimmed from local and regional gas station pumps.  The two made several thousands of dollars worth of purchases at area WalGreens and Bulington Coat Factory stores.

Investigators also believe they are actively committing similar frauds throughout the state.
On Friday May 6, 2016 the Richland Police Department learned that the suspects had checked into the Motel 6 at 1771 Fowler.  Investigators responded to the location and arrested Millan and Almaguer without incident.  A search warrant served on their motel room and vehicle recovered several pieces of evidence related to credit/debit card fraud.

Both subjects were booked into the Benton County jail on the above listed charges.
One complication of an investigation of this type is difficulty in identifying victims. Most victims of fraud report the incident to their financial institution but not their local law enforcement agency.  This makes identification of the number of crimes and victims impossible. 

Anyone who believes that they might have been a victim of this series of crimes is encouraged to contact Detective Erik Lundquist at 509-942-7716.