IDENTITY THEFT CHARGES
Identity theft laws make it a crime to misuse another person's identifying information -- whether personal or financial. This personal identifying information, including social security numbers, credit history, and PIN numbers, is often acquired through one of two means: (1) the offender's unlawful access to information from government and financial entities; or (2) lost or stolen mail, wallets and purses, identification, and credit or debit cards. 18 U.S.C. § 1028 provides punishment for “[w]hoever…knowingly and without lawful authority produces an identification document, authentication feature, or a false identification document” or who knowingly possesses such documents with the intent to defraud. If convicted of identity theft you may be facing large fines and/or imprisonment for up to fifteen years. However, if the identity theft was commited as part of a drug crime scheme or terrorism scheme you will face enhanced punishment.
Because of the life-threatening consequences of an identity theft conviction it is important that you seek the services of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney immediately if you have been charged with or are being investigated for identity theft. At Kestenbaum, Eisner, & Gorin, LLP, our attorneys have over 50 years combined experience in criminal defense and we will work hard to provide you with a successful defense. Because of the complexity of federal laws and court systems, it is very important that your lawyer have a good amount of experience in federal court rooms. Now is not the time to entrust your case to an attorney who is ill-equipped to handle your identity theft charges. You should contact our firm as soon as possible to be directed to a lawyer who will address your charges in a way that will positively resolve your case.