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Police Seek Scam Victims
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An investigation into reports of identity theft and credit card fraud resulted in the serving of search warrants and confiscation of property in Escalon this week, and police are looking for possible victims of the scam. The warrants were served at a business, All City Automotive at 1910 Main St., Escalon, and a residence in the 1800 Block of Baker Avenue in that city.

Two men were detained, questioned and released pending further investigation. Items seized at the business confirmed that customers’ credit card numbers were compromised, police said, and were being used in a variety of stores to obtain numerous items, totaling tens of thousands of dollars. Police had identified a couple of victims in the case but believe there could be more, including residents in Oakdale, Riverbank, Escalon and beyond.
“If people see suspicious activity on their card or unknown charges, they should contact us,” said Escalon Police Chief James Shaw.

In addition to the devices needed to “skim” card numbers, stolen property obtained from the use of those numbers were discovered at the residence on Baker Street and taken into evidence. Items ranged from a trolling motor to large screen TV.
There are many credit card numbers that cannot be connected with the legitimate owners at this time, police said, and they are asking those individuals that have used a credit card at the All City Automotive (smog shop), that have had suspicious activity or unauthorized purchases, to contact the Escalon Police Department at (209) 691-7300.