FRENCH CREEK, W.Va. — Two people are facing multiple felony charges after allegedly using stolen identity information to purchase an iPhone and leading police on a high-speed chase across multiple counties.
Ramon De Jesus Rosario-Tavarez, 22, and Yamilka Antigua-Vicente, 21, were charged with identity theft, attempted felony fraud, and conspiracy. Tavarez also faces charges related to altering vehicle registration and fleeing law enforcement with reckless disregard for safety.
The incident began on July 14, 2023, when a resident in French Creek received an iPhone he hadn’t ordered. Soon after, Tavarez and Vicente showed up at the residence, prompting the victim to contact police. When Sgt. Dewaine Linger of the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office arrived, he spotted the suspect vehicle — a car with a fake Texas plate — driving recklessly and attempted a traffic stop.
The vehicle fled at speeds exceeding 100 mph, weaving through Upshur, Lewis, and Braxton counties before crashing in a Napier driveway. Both suspects ran from the scene but were later identified through evidence found in the car, including tablets and other electronics.
Authorities later confirmed the suspects had used the victim’s personal information to order a $1,199 iPhone 14 Pro Max. Police also determined the vehicle’s temporary registration was forged.
Tavarez and Vicente were arrested after a similar fraud incident in Indiana on Aug. 6, 2023, and extradited back to West Virginia on July 9, 2025. Both remain in custody at Tygart Valley Regional Jail. Preliminary hearings are underway in Upshur County Magistrate Court.
Investigators noted that the suspects’ tactics were consistent with organized criminal activity.
