HARRISBURG, PA — Four California men are facing multiple charges after authorities said they were involved in an alleged scheme using stolen credit card information, including data tied to 17 Pennsylvania residents.
According to the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office and Pennsylvania State Police, Andres Ramirez, Andres Maravilla, Jesus Maravilla, and David Santoyo have each been charged with corrupt organizations, dealing in the proceeds of unlawful activities, identity theft, and related offenses.
Authorities reported the investigation determined the defendants allegedly obtained stolen credit card information through the dark web and used it to make online purchases, including event tickets and other items.
According to investigators, the items were then resold at a discount through social media platforms. Police said members of the group referred to the alleged scheme as “The Method,” and Santoyo allegedly charged $500 to teach it to others.
Officials said that because financial institutions often declined fraudulent transactions before funds were withdrawn, the estimated loss to banks and credit card companies is nearly $2 million.
According to authorities, the defendants are currently in California, and efforts are underway to arrange their extradition to Pennsylvania.
Police reported that upon extradition to Somerset County, the case will be prosecuted by the Attorney General’s Financial Crimes Section.
All suspects, arrestees, and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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