An unclaimed suitcase led to two Sacramento residents being charged with credit card fraud.
United States Attorney Lawrence G. Brown and Sacramento County Sheriff John McGinness identified the defendants as Joseph Hatfield, 27, and Jahmeelah Sullins, 22.
They have been charged with conspiracy and access device fraud. Hatfield additionally was charged with possession of device-making equipment.
The indictment alleges that the defendants used stolen credit card numbers to purchase gift cards and merchandise from stores in multiple states, causing more than $50,000 in losses.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Robin R. Taylor, who is prosecuting the case, the defendants used fraudulently obtained credit card numbers to purchase gift cards and merchandise in Sacramento, Texas, Florida and elsewhere.
The investigation began on Feb. 12, after Southwest Airlines recovered an unidentified suitcase containing multiple counterfeited credit cards at Sacramento International Airport. The suitcase was in the carrier's lost baggage area. The suitcase was later found to belong to Hatfield, officials said.
Hatfield faces 15 years in prison for possession of device-making equipment. Both defendants face up to 10 years on the other charges.
The investigation involved the Sacramento Valley Hi Tech Crimes Task Force, the U.S. Secret Service and the Sacramento County Sheriff's Office.
Call The Bee's Mark Glover, (916) 321-1184.
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