Two Arrested in Southern California Credit Card Theft and Identity Fraud Scheme
Two suspects are in custody following an investigation into a credit card theft and identity fraud scheme impacting residents across Southern California. The arrests were made by the Costa Mesa Police Department.
The suspects have been identified as Veronika Kushnareva, 32, from San Jose, and Richard Kissinger, 40, from Walnut, according to authorities.
The investigation began in late February when a victim reported that a new credit card never arrived in the mail. The stolen card was then traced to unauthorized purchases made at a Newport Beach hotel.
When officers arrived at the hotel, they quickly located the pair. Additionally, the vehicle they were using had been reported stolen.
Kushnareva was found in a hotel room, where police discovered a significant amount of evidence. This included blank business checks, a laptop, a printer, counterfeit money, and a high-end radio jammer. Photos from the scene also showed a collection of stolen credit cards.
Kushnareva was taken into custody on charges of possessing property related to the stolen credit cards, as well as for possessing drug paraphernalia.
Kissinger was reportedly found “lurking in a stairwell of a nearby motel” as officers conducted a search on foot. Police identified him as the individual suspected of using the stolen credit card and driving the stolen vehicle.
Detectives have identified victims and businesses affected by the suspects’ activities. The victims resided in Costa Mesa, Irvine, Newport Beach, Tustin, and Fontana. Authorities have made contact with 15 confirmed victims and are continuing their investigation to identify more individuals who may have been affected.
Anyone with information related to this case or who believes they may have been a victim of mail theft or credit card fraud is encouraged to contact Detective Sally Ortiz via email at [email protected].
