Federal authorities have charged fourteen individuals in connection with a large-scale identity theft operation involving stolen Social Security numbers and other personal identification documents belonging to U.S. citizens. The documents were primarily taken from residents of Puerto Rico and used by unauthorized individuals residing in the United States.
The criminal operation reportedly spanned from July 2008 through April 2014 and involved a complex trafficking network. Conspirators based in Puerto Rico illegally obtained the identities of legitimate U.S. citizens and assembled packages of personal documentation—including Social Security cards, birth certificates, and driver's licenses.
These identity sets were then sold through a network of brokers operating in multiple states across the U.S. Each package was sold for amounts ranging between $700 and $2,500, depending on the location and type of documentation involved.
The stolen identities were used to fraudulently apply for jobs, government services, and benefits. In many cases, the individuals using these identities were able to obtain official documents such as driver’s licenses and work authorizations, allowing them to live and operate under false names for years.
This case has raised serious concerns about vulnerabilities in federal and state identity verification systems. It also highlights the growing threat posed by document fraud and identity trafficking, especially involving U.S. territories where birthright citizenship offers access to federal benefits and protections.
Officials have warned that the stolen identities continue to pose a risk to affected citizens. Victims are urged to monitor their credit, report suspicious activity, and take steps to secure their personal information.
Investigations are still ongoing, and authorities have not ruled out additional arrests or charges.
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