A man and woman used stolen credit cards to buy items at a Costco in Tustin

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On September 27, 2024, and January 2, 2025, a man and woman used stolen credit cards to purchase numerous items at a Costco, according to the Tustin Police Department.

The man appears white and is perhaps in his late 40’s or early 50’s. He is bald with a gray beard. He was wearing a black t-shirt and a gold chain and long shorts. The woman appears to be in her 30’s and may be Hispanic. She was wearing blue jeans with tears in them and a black top. She was wearing beige shoes and had a large purse.

If you can help the Tustin Police to locate them, please contact Investigator Garzone at 714-426-2427 or jgarzone@tustinca.org.

If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call Orange County Crime Stoppers by dialing 855-487-6227, using the Crime Stoppers app “P3 Tips” or by going to https://occrimestoppers.org/submit-a-tip/.

Using stolen credit cards to purchase items is considered a serious crime in California. The penalties can vary depending on the specifics of the case, such as the value of the items purchased and the defendant’s criminal history. Generally, the crime can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

  • Misdemeanor: If the value of the items is less than $950, it may be charged as petty theft, which is a misdemeanor. Penalties can include up to 6 months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
  • Felony: If the value of the items is $950 or more, it can be charged as grand theft, which is a felony. Penalties can include 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Additionally, there may be other charges related to the use of stolen credit cards, such as identity theft or fraud, which carry their own penalties.

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Our Editor, Art Pedroza, worked at the O.C. Register and the OC Weekly and studied journalism at CSUF and UCI. He has lived in Santa Ana for over 30 years and has served on several city and county commissions.

When he is not writing or editing Pedroza specializes in risk control and occupational safety. He also teaches part time at Cerritos College and CSUF. Pedroza has an MBA from Keller University.