As technology usage continues to become a crucial part of everyday life, the potential for identity theft has increased exponentially. Identity theft occurs whenever an individual uses fraudulent or deceptive means to obtain another individual's personal information for his or her own economic gain. This might involve obtaining someone's bank account information, credit card information, or personal information such as date of birth and social security number, essentially in order to steal money from that person. Identity theft often occurs digitally, but also can occur by physical means, such as by getting information from lost or stolen mail.

Federal authorities recently arrested a League City woman on federal charges for using the identity of a dead woman for over 20 years. The woman's deception came to light when her fingerprints on a mariner's license application matched those of another woman who had been fingerprinted in connection with an investigation related to her husband's murder in California in 1988. The woman allegedly fled California with another man, who now operates Majestic Ventures, a company that holds dinner cruises and weddings on yachts. The woman reportedly has served as a captain for the company for the last 20 years. She used the dead woman's personal information, including her name, date of birth, and social security number, to obtain all types of documentation, licenses, and permits. The woman allegedly told reporters that she left California because she feared for her life. Another man later was convicted in connection with her husband's murder.

The Cogdell Law Firm has the experience, knowledge and reputation that you want and need for your federal crime defense team. The results of a federal conviction for identity theft can be devastating. When results matter most, contact Dan Cogdell at (713) 426-2244 or [email protected]. Call our office today and schedule a consultation with an effective Houston federal criminal defense lawyer.