Identity Thief Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison

Identity Thief Sentenced to 6 Years in Prison

PHILADELPHIA – Carnell Ragan, 48, of Philadelphia, has been sentenced to 72 months in prison for an identity theft scheme that left victims with at least $95,233.22 in losses.

Ragan’s scheme involved stealing personal information from unsuspecting individuals, including classified hospital records, official DMV and credit card company holograms, and employee badges from various companies. He used this information to create counterfeit credit cards, selling his victims’ credit card account numbers to anyone willing to pay his fee.

When Pennsylvania State Police searched Ragan’s home, they found account numbers written on pieces of paper, on magnetic strips, pressed on credit cards, on ink rolls, and in hospital records. Of those found, 107 victims reported losses.

Ragan pleaded guilty on October 4, 2013, to conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge R. Barclay Surrick ordered restitution of $95,233.22 to Ragan’s victims, a $200 special assessment, and three years of supervised release.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and Pennsylvania State Police, with Assistant United States Attorney Virgil Walker prosecuting the case.

Ragan’s sentence is a stern reminder of the consequences of identity theft. With the rise of online crimes, it’s essential for individuals to protect their personal information and be cautious of suspicious activities.

As the investigation continues, authorities are warning citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

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