In Herkimer, New York, police arrested three individuals accused of attempting to withdraw money using a fake driver's license. The incident occurred at the Woodforest Bank within Walmart, prompting officers to arrive around 6 p.m. They detained Kelly Arrigo from Brooklyn, while her associates, Jason and Jordan Arzu from the Bronx, were captured near the Arc Goods Store. Further investigations revealed that they are allegedly part of a larger criminal operation engaged in identity theft and fraud across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

All three suspects were charged with second-degree criminal possession of a forged instrument, a Class D felony. They were also charged with two Class A misdemeanors: fourth-degree attempted grand larceny and fifth-degree conspiracy. They are currently held at the Herkimer County Correctional Facility, with bail set at $10,000 cash or $20,000 bond. Further charges are expected.

If you have been arrested for using a fake ID or identity theft, seek an experienced defense lawyer as soon as possible to preserve your rights. The Lento Law Firm Criminal Defense Team has years of experience helping and protecting the rights of clients accused of committing fraud or identity theft. We want to help you, too. Call the Lento Law Firm at 888-535-3686 today or contact us online.

Fake ID Crimes in New Jersey

Fake IDs are primarily associated with individuals under age 21 seeking to buy alcohol or gain access to age-restricted clubs or bars. Some see fake IDs as little more than a joke or a rite of passage. However, those who get caught using a fake ID can face severe and life-altering legal consequences, especially in adulthood.

In New Jersey, possessing, displaying, creating, or selling a fake ID is illegal (NJSA §2C:21-2.1.) A conviction relating to fake ID use can lead to serious felony charges and potential imprisonment. New Jerseyadults who "exhibit, display, or use" a false government-issued identification, such as a driver's license or birth certificate, may be charged with a third-degree crime, punishable by up to five years in jail and a fine of up to $15,000. Possession of a fake ID is a fourth-degree crime, leading to up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

State fake ID laws are more lenient on juveniles, but they are still serious. New Jersey minors caught possessing or displaying a fake ID will usually face a disorderly persons charge. A conviction may result in mandatory driver's license suspension, a fine of up to $1,000, and up to six months in jail. If the individual is not yet of driving age, the suspension may begin upon eligibility for a driver's license.

New Jersey Identity Theft Crimes

Under New Jersey law (NJSA § 2C:21-17a), identity theft involves knowingly impersonating or falsely assuming another person's identity to gain benefits or cause harm or fraud. This includes pretending to represent someone else or an organization to benefit oneself or another or to inflict damage or fraud on another. However, a juvenile who uses someone else's identification to access age-restricted services or goods is generally not subject to identity theft laws. Instead, fake ID laws will most likely apply.

The severity of identity theft penalties depends on the theft's value and the number of victims involved. For example, a first offense involving less than $500 and only one victim is punishable by up to 18 months in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. On the other hand, if the amount is $75,000 or more, or there are five or more victims, convicted individuals face five to ten years in prison and financial penalties up to $150,000.

The Lento Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team Can Help

If you or a loved one have been charged with fake ID offenses or identity theft, don't hesitate to contact the Lento Law Firm today. Our Criminal Defense Team understands the unique challenges that these cases present, and we're committed to seeking the best outcome possible and ensuring that your rights are protected. Contact us today at 888.535.3686 or through the online form to start taking charge of your future.