Jerry Leon Blankenship, Identity Theft, Tennessee 2022

A shocking case of identity theft has come to light in Tennessee, as Jerry Leon Blankenship, a 65-year-old from Newport, was sentenced to 25 months in prison for using a stolen identity.

According to court records, Blankenship enlisted in the United States Navy in 1976 but deserted the following year to avoid future military service. He assumed the name and identity of another individual and established a new life in Newport, Tennessee.

Blankenship’s deception went undetected for decades, but authorities finally discovered his true identity after he obtained a COVID-19 vaccination in the victim’s name at a Newport pharmacy. Store surveillance video caught Blankenship using the victim’s name, leading to his arrest.

As part of a plea agreement, Blankenship pleaded guilty to one count of fraud involving a Social Security number and one count of aggravated identity theft. Following his release from prison, he will be on supervised release for three years.

The investigation was led by the Criminal Investigative Division of the Tennessee Highway Patrol, with Assistant United States Attorney Mac D. Heavener, III representing the United States.

The case highlights the severity of identity theft and the importance of vigilance in protecting personal information. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of modern life, it is essential to remain aware of the potential threats to our identity and take steps to safeguard our personal information.

Blankenship’s sentence serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in such deceitful behavior. His case also underscores the need for accountability and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions.

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