Ambridge Conspirator Smith Gets 3-Year Prison Term for Stolen Credit Card Scam

PITTSBURGH – The grim reaper of credit card fraud, Calvin Smith, 43, from Ambridge, PA, has been handed a 36-month sentence for his involvement in a colossal scheme to steal and misuse American Express and Discover Card account numbers.

United States Attorney David J. Hickton was the one who announced today’s ominous verdict, as United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab meted out the severe penalty.

The investigation revealed that Smith, along with his cohorts, masterminded a heist of identity and account information from unsuspecting cardholders across Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio between December 2010 and June 2011. The total loss due to this fraudulent scheme was a staggering $249,000.

Assistant United States Attorney Gregory C. Melucci led the prosecution against Smith on behalf of the government, ensuring that justice was served for the victims of this cyber heist.

The investigation was a joint effort by the United States Postal Inspection Service, United States Secret Service, and agents from the Western Pennsylvania Financial Crimes Task Force (WPFCTF). Established in February 1995, the WPFCTF is a collaborative force committed to combating financial crimes, including identity fraud, in Western Pennsylvania. Partners include federal agencies and local law enforcement.

This sentence serves as a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who dare to tamper with the financial security of others in our digital age.