Rock Valley, IA — Jeremy O’Neil Ruddell, 52, of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, was arrested on February 7, 2025, in connection with a third-degree fraudulent practice charge. Ruddell was taken into custody after a warrant was issued following an investigation into his misuse of a debit card.
According to the Rock Valley Police Department, Ruddell had reported to Peoples Bank in Rock Valley that his debit card had been stolen and used to make fraudulent purchases. The purchases took place on December 19, 2024, at Fareway Meat & Grocery in Papillion, Nebraska, where the card was used for two transactions: one for $514.45 and another for $509.44, both involving the purchase of $500 gift cards.
Ruddell disputed the charges with Peoples Bank, certifying that neither he nor anyone authorized by him made the purchases, nor did he receive any goods or services related to the transactions. However, after an investigation, Peoples Bank contacted Fareway, where surveillance footage and receipts revealed that Ruddell himself had used the card to make the fraudulent purchases.
A warrant for Ruddell’s arrest was issued on January 8, 2025, and he was apprehended on February 7. Ruddell now faces charges of third-degree fraudulent practice in connection with the unauthorized use of his debit card.
The investigation continues as authorities examine further details of the case.
