Danel Cordero, Access Device Fraud and Identity Theft, Pennsylvania 2022

A Midland man’s scheme to use stolen credit card numbers has come to an end. Danel Cordero, age 35, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of access device fraud and identity theft, announced Acting United States Attorney Stephen R. Kaufman today.

Cordero’s crimes date back to the dark web, where he purchased stolen credit card numbers. He then encoded them onto gift cards, making unauthorized purchases from local businesses in and around the Western District of Pennsylvania.

United States District Judge David S. Cercone accepted Cordero’s guilty plea to two counts of access device fraud and identity theft. Sentencing is set for January 26, 2022 at 11:30 a.m.

The law dictates a maximum sentence of 12 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $500,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will depend on the seriousness of the offense and Cordero’s prior criminal history.

Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The case was the result of investigations by multiple agencies, including the Beaver Borough Police Department, the United States Secret Service, and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

As a result of his plea, Cordero will remain on bond pending sentencing.

A total of not more than 12 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $500,000, or both could be the outcome of Cordero’s sentencing. The actual sentence will be determined by the court based on the severity of the crime and Cordero’s prior record.

The case highlights the importance of vigilance in the face of cybercrime. As more and more transactions move online, it’s crucial that individuals and businesses take steps to protect themselves from identity theft and access device fraud.

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