EAST ALTON, Ill. (WPTA) — A 44-year-old East Alton woman has been charged with over a dozen felonies in connection with an identity theft investigation.
Jessica A. Wyatt was arrested on April 23 and is facing multiple charges, including 4 counts of Aggravated Identity Theft, 10 counts of Identity Theft, and 1 count of Deceptive Practices. These charges stem from allegations that she obtained personal information from victims and used it for illegal financial gain.
The charges include allegations that Wyatt targeted individuals over the age of 60, with the most serious charges related to aggravated identity theft. The other charges involve victims under the age of 60. Police say Wyatt illegally obtained personal information knowing it had been stolen or produced fraudulently, using it for deceptive financial practices.
The investigation into Wyatt began approximately one year ago after a routine traffic stop. Police say officers discovered drugs in her vehicle, and further investigation uncovered evidence of identity theft. Chief Scott Golike of East Alton Police expressed concerns about Wyatt’s potential to reoffend while she awaits trial, noting that the investigation is ongoing, and there may be additional charges brought against her and others involved in the case.
Despite the serious nature of the charges, Wyatt was granted pre-trial release under the provisions of Illinois’ SAFE-T Act. Golike indicated that more charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Wyatt’s trial is expected to unfold over the coming months as law enforcement officials work to uncover the full scope of the identity theft scheme.
