EVERETT – After a lengthy investigation, a prolific fraudster has been arrested for 54 felony crimes and is believed to have stolen more than $50,000.
For several months, Financial Crimes detectives worked with the Mill Creek and Mukilteo Police Departments to investigate a substantial fraud ring that culminated in the arrest of a 36 year-old Mukilteo woman. Detectives believe the suspect, Alexia Devlin, used Airbnb and other vacation rental companies to target her victims. When Devlin moved into a rental, she would steal the personal information that the owners left behind as a means to create new identities or take over existing ones. With that information, she opened bank accounts, credit cards and withdrew cash.
“Our detectives have done an excellent and in-depth investigation on this case,” says Financial Crimes Sergeant Matt Mekelburg. “We are continuing to investigate this suspect and expect to find additional information that leads to more victims. It’s unfortunate that victims had their personal information stolen and used for criminal activity. While we understand the concept, we want people to recognize the risks of renting out their homes, and leaving personal information behind.”
As the investigation continues, detectives have recommended twenty-two (22) ID Theft 1, twenty-four (24) ID Theft 2, and eighteen (18) forgery charges to the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office.
News Releases are located at: www.everettwa.gov/police
###