A shocking case of credit card fraud has shaken the community in North Carolina. Anthony Thomas Harrelson, a 39-year-old resident of Sophia, North Carolina, has pleaded guilty to seven felony charges of using unauthorized access devices to commit credit card fraud.
The charges, which were brought against Harrelson in federal court in Greensboro, stem from his use of credit cards fraudulently obtained from J.P. Morgan Chase Bank and American Express. According to the indictment, Harrelson used these credit cards to purchase various items, including merchandise, jewelry, gold coins, meals at restaurants, vehicles, and firearm parts, in excess of $350,161.47.
The exact amount of the loss will be determined by the court at sentencing. Harrelson faces a maximum potential penalty of seventy years imprisonment. As part of the plea agreement, Harrelson has been required to make restitution and to forfeit money and goods acquired from the use of the fraudulent credit cards.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Frank J. Chut, Jr. and Steven N. Baker.
Sentencing is scheduled for federal court in Greensboro on June 27, 2019, at 2 p.m. Harrelson’s plea deal requires him to make restitution and forfeit the goods acquired from the fraudulent credit cards, and he faces up to 70 years in prison. The investigation was a collaborative effort between multiple agencies.
The case highlights the importance of vigilance in protecting against credit card fraud and the severe consequences that can result from such crimes. As the community moves forward, it is essential to remain aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
Defendant: Anthony Thomas Harrelson
Criminal Charges: Seven felony charges of use of an unauthorized access device
City and State: Greensboro, North Carolina
Date: June 27, 2019
Sentence: Plea deal requires restitution and forfeiture of goods acquired from fraudulent credit cards; faces up to 70 years in prison
Dollar Amount: $350,161.47
Key Facts
- State: North Carolina
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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