Wednesday, June 19, 2013

The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

Police investigate loads of identity theft cases
Posted: 03.13.2009 at 4:51 PM
3
Photo

AGENCY, IOWA -- A southeast Iowa man is sitting in jail after he stole the identity of a high-ranking gang member from the east coast.

Early this morning the Wapello County Sheriff's Department and Ottumwa Police Department executed a search warrant at an apartment located at 227 West Wapello in Agency, Iowa.

Officers learned that the Agency resident was using the stolen identity of a violent gang member by the name of Roy Hidalgo.

The southeast Iowa man’s real name is Ricardo Almanza.

Officers tell KTVO that it's a common practice for criminals to distribute their social security number and other information to protect their where abouts.

"It’s hard for us to identify the real Roy Hidalgo if we have multiple Roy Hidalgos running around the country,” said Ottumwa Police Department’s Sgt. Nick wadding.

During the execution of the search warrant, officers seized a large number of documents with Almanza’s false identity and a small amount of marijuana.

The Agency man was arrested and charged with forgery, three counts of obstructing prosecution and contempt of court.

Ottumwa police said this wasn't the first time a case like this has come across their desks. In fact, they look into a handful of these cases each month.

Investigators said that a large number of illegal aliens in Ottumwa and southeast Iowa steal identities to obtain employment in the area.

"Communities that have packing plants are known to have a lot of illegal aliens working at their plants and people will come in for employment and use a false identity to be employed," said Ottumwa Police Department’s Lt. Tom McAndrew.

Police warn residents that it’s important to keep track of your personal documents and always shred important information when you’re tossing it out. These simple tips will help protect your identity.

Popular Stories
Thumbnail
One in custody following report of a domestic disturbance
KTVO Newsdesk  |  Yesterday at 3:01 PM  |  2 comments
Thumbnail
Alleged molester has sex crime history
KTVO Newsdesk  |  Today at 11:34 AM  |  7 comments
Thumbnail
Macon man recovering after being struck by lightning
KTVO Newsdesk  |  Yesterday at 9:45 AM  |  2 comments
Follow Heartland Connection
Get news and weather notifications on your phone by downloading the iPhone or Android app below
Sign up to get alerts and updates for breaking news, severe weather, and deals:
submit
ADVERTISEMENT
Special Features
Funeral Announcements
Announcements from area funeral homes
Best Bets Auto
Auto information from our experts
Best Bets Home & Ag
Home and Ag information from our experts
Senior of the Month
View and Nominate here
ADVERTISEMENT