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Marcus Israel Butler, Debit Card Fraud, Sacramento CA, 2017
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Marcus Israel Butler, 33, of Sacramento, has admitted guilt in a brazen, nationwide scheme to defraud Apple stores, according to court documents unsealed today. Butler’s grift, spanning from California to Alaska and the East Coast, racked up losses totaling approximately $353,000.
The scam was simple, yet effective. Butler traveled across the country, hitting Apple stores with a debit card that had already been revoked by the issuing bank. He’d play the confused customer, claiming issues with the card and then direct sales associates to a co-conspirator posing as bank personnel. This accomplice provided a bogus authorization code, allowing the fraudulent transactions to go through.
The United States Secret Service, leading the investigation, finally caught up with Butler in Colorado, arresting him mid-scheme as he attempted to make further illicit purchases at Apple locations. But the Apple stores weren’t the only victims; Butler also used the compromised card to acquire other goods and services, extending the reach of his fraudulent activity.
U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced the guilty plea today, signaling a significant step toward accountability for Butler’s actions. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd A. Pickles is handling the prosecution, building a case based on the evidence gathered by the Secret Service.
Butler is scheduled to appear before Judge John A. Mendez on March 27, 2018, for sentencing. He’s facing a potential maximum penalty of 10 years behind bars and a $250,000 fine. However, the final sentence will be determined by the court, taking into account federal sentencing guidelines and any mitigating or aggravating factors presented.
This case serves as a stark reminder that even seemingly simple schemes can have far-reaching consequences. The Secret Service continues to aggressively investigate and prosecute financial crimes like these, protecting businesses and consumers from fraudulent activity. The Eastern District of California DOJ office released the details of the plea today.
Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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