WICHITA FALLS, TX – A Wichita Falls couple is facing serious fraud charges after police discovered over 100 stolen documents linked to financial crimes inside their home.
John Walsh and Jessica Brooks were arrested for fraudulent use or possession of 50 or more items containing identifying information, police said.
Investigation & Arrest
According to arrest warrants, the Wichita Falls Police Department (WFPD) Property Crimes Unit executed a search warrant at Walsh’s residence on Bridwell Street in early February while investigating stolen vehicles and vehicle identification number (VIN) swapping.
Inside the home, officers found a large stash of financial documents and over 100 pieces of stolen identification belonging to more than 20 victims. Mail addressed to both Walsh and Brooks was discovered mixed in with the stolen information, leading police to suspect they were running a fraud operation from one of the bedrooms.
Stolen Vehicle Connection
The investigation first began on February 8, when officers responded to a noise complaint at the same address. During their visit, they found a vehicle on a car dolly without license plates, later determined to be stolen from Wise County. Walsh was arrested at that time and allegedly admitted to stealing the car and bringing it to Wichita Falls.
Legal Consequences
Both Walsh and Brooks were arrested on Friday, March 7, and their bonds were set at $200,000 each. Walsh has since bonded out, but Brooks remains in custody as of Monday afternoon.
Authorities continue to investigate the extent of the fraud operation, and additional charges could be filed.