Title: Georgia Women Accused of $165,000 Bank Fraud Scheme in Bay Area Identified
Arrest of Coretta Bates in Georgia
Published: April 3, 2024 10:28am EDT
Atlanta, GA - Georgia authorities have apprehended Coretta Bates, 31, in connection with a series of bank fraud cases in the Bay Area, Florida. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) announced her arrest on federal warrants for bank fraud and aggravated identity theft on Monday, April 1, 2024.
Details of the Bank Fraud Scheme
According to the HCSO, Bates allegedly exploited promotional offers from credit unions by using counterfeit North Carolina identification cards to open fraudulent accounts. By doing so, she stole over $165,000 from various credit unions in the region.
exploiting bank promotions
- Opened bogus accounts using counterfeit North Carolina ID cards
- Collected free lines of credit or account bonuses
- Reportedly affected Suncoast Credit Union locations (number undisclosed)
Investigation and Previous Cases
The HCSO had previously released information about a broader $270,000 bank fraud case in October 2023. Multiple suspects had used numerous counterfeit North Carolina driver’s licenses to create bank accounts under one person’s photograph for criminal activities. Although Bates was not named a suspect in that case then, investigators later identified her as the ringleader.
Sheriff Chronister’s statement
Sheriff Chad Chronister previously stated, “The banks are not the victims here. The people who will suffer are those who conduct business with these banks, as they will ultimately be burdened with the costs tied to these fraudulent activities.”
Implications and Encouragement
These recent bank fraud incidents in Florida coincide with an upward trend of financial crimes nationwide. The use of advanced technology and techniques by offenders highlights the importance of citizens’ vigilance and awareness to protect themselves from financial losses.
Contact Information
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone with information relevant to this case or possible fraudulent activities to contact them at (813) 247-8200. Stay informed: Sign up now for our daily newsletter.