EVERETT — Police in Everett believe a couple of brothers could have stolen identification from as many as 30 victims.
The duo was arrested Wednesday after police searched a mobile home in the 800 block of 128th Street SE.
Detectives recovered almost 80 pieces of evidence including stolen mail, checks, bank cards and other financial papers. They also found phony Washington identification cards and checks as well as a counterfeit $50 bill.
“We’re still investigating,” said Sgt. Mark Thacker, who oversees the department’s financial crimes unit. “It’s an ongoing process.”
Detectives have found evidence of at least 10 victims, but believe there could be triple that number as the investigation unfolds, Thacker said.
Police did not have an estimate on the financial hit to the victims.
One of the brothers, 35, was arrested for investigation of possessing heroin and methamphetamine along with four counts of identity theft.
He had been charged earlier in the year with identity theft, forgery, drug possession and possessing stolen property.
Police found a spiral notebook in his room that included 15 names with addresses, dates of birth and credit card numbers.
He’s accused of using the stolen identity information to buy electronic equipment, obtain credit cards and try to get loans.
The suspect allegedly told detectives that he and his brother had been in the identity-theft business for about six months.
They reportedly would have other people bring them stolen personal information and they’d share whatever money they could amass from their online thievery.
Eric Stevick: 425-339-3446, stevick@heraldnet.com
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