According to the New Jersey State Police, a 34 year old Marlton, N.J. man was arrested and charged, with credit card theft and fraudulent use of a credit card. The accused stole a credit card that was accidentally dropped by the victim at a Pilesgrove Township Wawa. Video footage shows the suspect placing his foot on top of the credit card after it had been dropped on the floor. The accused then picked up the credit card and went to his car which was parked behind the Wawa. Shortly after, the suspect walked over to a nearby Tractor and Supply store where he bought a welding helmet and a soft drink. The total amount of his purchases amassed to more than $100. The NJ State Police used video footage which they posted to their Facebook page to identify the suspect. The man now faces credit card theft charges and fraudulent use of a credit card charges.
Credit Card Theft N.J.S.A. 2C:21-6c(1)
The suspect in the case was clearly shown on the Wawa video surveillance placing his foot over the fallen credit card.
“A person who takes or obtains a credit card from the person, possession, custody or control of another without the cardholder’s consent . . . is guilty of a crime.”
Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card N.J.S.A. 2C:21-6
The second charge the suspect is charge with is Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card. This is from the use or attempted use of a credit card to purchase products illegally. This law also applies to any cashier who accepts the card knowing that the person who has the card is fraudulently trying to make a purchase.
“A person other than the cardholder or a person authorize by him who, with intent to defraud the issuer, or a person or organization providing money, goods, services or anything else of value, or any other person, signs a credit card, is guilty of a crime of the fourth degree.”
Being charged with Credit Card Theft in New Jersey is a crime of the fourth degree and carries a sentence of up to 18 months in prison. If a person has a stolen credit card and hasn’t made an attempt to make a charge they could also be charged with Theft By Unlawful Taking (N.J.S.A. 2C:20-3).
Do you need a Criminal Defense Attorney?
If you or someone you know has been charged with credit card theft in New Jersey, you should contact one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys at Villani & DeLuca. Our criminal defense attorneys will review the details of your situation and discuss your pending case. Call 888-389-9533 for a FREE case review.
