CLEVELAND, OH – A quartet from Buffalo, New York, are facing federal charges after allegedly raking in $19,500 worth of gift cards using fraudulently obtained credit cards. The scheme targeted stores in Cleveland and upstate New York, according to an indictment unsealed today.
Ricky Butler, 37, Cherise Luper, 22, Brianna Davis, 20, and Larry Cross, 22, have all been indicted on charges of access device fraud, aggravated identity theft, unlawful possession of a document-making implement, and conspiracy to commit the same. U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, Steven M. Dettelbach, announced the indictment, signaling a serious crackdown on this type of interstate fraud.
The indictment details how the group allegedly used the bogus credit cards to purchase gift cards from Walmart stores located at 3400 Steelyard Drive and 10000 Brookpark Road, as well as a RiteAid at 10502 St. Clair Avenue – all in Cleveland. Two additional stores in New York were also hit. Investigators allege the crew wasn’t just relying on stolen numbers; they were actively creating counterfeit identification cards to facilitate the scheme.
Authorities say the group amassed a total of 39 gift cards, each carrying a $500 value. The scope of the operation suggests a level of planning and coordination beyond a simple impulse buy. The U.S. Secret Service and the Bedford Police Department spearheaded the investigation, uncovering the network of fraudulent activity.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys M. Kendra Klump, Robert W. Kern, and James L. Morford are prosecuting the case. While the indictment represents a significant step, it’s crucial to remember that it’s merely an accusation. Each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sentencing, should the defendants be convicted, will be determined by the Court, taking into account their criminal history (if any), their specific roles in the offense, and the details of the crime. However, prosecutors noted sentences will adhere to statutory maximums, but are likely to be less than the maximum allowable. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Source ↗
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