Card fraud investigation in Albany stems from Lee County entering auto

ALBANY — An entering auto case that took place in Lee County last week is connected to a financial transaction card fraud case under investigation by the Albany Police Department. Detectives from both jurisdictions are looking for the suspect.

A report from the APD said Lt. Jimmy Jones with the Lee County Sheriff’s Office contacted Albany police regarding an entering auto in Lee County, saying that someone used stolen financial transaction cards to purchase items from multiple stores in Albany.

Jones said the entering auto took place at the Grand Island Golf Course between noon-1 p.m. on March 8. He said a wallet was taken. The wallet contained cards later used at the Albany Mall Dillard’s multiple times and at Ulta Beauty on North Westover Boulevard.

Jones said the thefts took place at around 1 p.m., which allowed a suspect to be tied to the entering auto. He added that “very good” surveillance video has been obtained of the suspect and at least one transaction, and law enforcement is currently working to identify the suspect.

The APD was notified due to the location of the thefts. The fraud portion is being investigated by Albany law enforcement while Lee County is taking responsibility for the entering auto portion.

Phyllis Banks, spokeswoman with the APD, said the suspect has stolen about $1,000.

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