Illinois Man Sentenced to 36 Months in Prison for Stealing Identities of Elderly Residents
Christopher Rhodes, a 53-year-old man from Lovejoy, Illinois, has been sentenced to a total of 36 months in prison for stealing the identities of elderly residents at a senior living facility where he used to work.
Rhodes was formerly an employee of St. Paul’s Senior Community, a not-for-profit retirement community in Belleville, Illinois. In his position, Rhodes had access to residents’ medical, health and personally identifiable information (PII).
Court proceedings established that from 2008 through July of 2017, Rhodes used names, social security numbers and other PII belonging to residents of St. Paul’s, without lawful authority, to obtain and maintain electric and gas service, water service, and satellite television service at his home.
The investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Norman R. Smith.
Rhodes previously pled guilty to three counts of wire fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft back in June of this year. In addition to his prison sentence, Rhodes was also ordered to pay restitution totaling $15,894.03.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding sensitive information, particularly when it comes to vulnerable populations such as the elderly.
Rhodes’ sentence is a result of his exploitation of the trust placed in him as an employee of St. Paul’s Senior Community. His actions not only caused financial loss but also compromised the personal data of numerous residents.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois, Steven D. Weinhoeft, announced the sentencing in a statement.
The case is a prime example of the consequences of identity theft and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Category: Cybercrime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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