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Michael W. Decker, Aggravated Identity Theft and Conspiracy, Pennsylvania 2020
In a shocking case of identity theft, Michael W. Decker, a 32-year-old resident of Vernon Hills, Illinois, pleaded guilty to two counts of Aggravated Identity Theft and Conspiracy in federal court in Pittsburgh. The charges were announced by United States Attorney Scott W. Brady.
According to the information provided to the Court, Decker submitted fraudulent applications for loans to purchase several expensive vehicles, including two Jeep Cherokee Trackhawks, from dealerships in Western Pennsylvania. Decker was part of a conspiracy based in Chicago, which involved the use of stolen identity information to obtain loans for high-end vehicles.
The members of the conspiracy travelled to dealerships in several states and used the stolen identity information to obtain loans for the vehicles. After obtaining the vehicles, members of the conspiracy would alter the Vehicle Identification Numbers and sell the vehicles.
Decker’s guilty plea was entered before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville, who scheduled the sentencing for August 5, 2020. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than seven years in prison, a fine of $500,000, or both as to each count.
Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police Western Regional Auto Theft Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the superseding indictment in this case.
Decker’s actions are a clear example of the devastating consequences of identity theft and the importance of protecting personal information. The case serves as a warning to individuals who engage in such activities, and we will continue to work tirelessly to bring them to justice.
The case is a reminder that identity theft is a serious crime that can have far-reaching consequences. We urge individuals to be vigilant and take steps to protect their personal information.
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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