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Search Warrants Served In Scam Investigation
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In response to numerous reports of identity theft and credit card fraud, and following a lengthy investigation, two search warrants were served on Wednesday, Feb. 29 by Escalon police as part of the investigation. The warrants targeted two locations in Escalon, All City Automotive at 1910 Main St., and a residence in the 1800 Block of Baker Avenue.

Two men were detained, questioned and released pending further investigation. Items seized at the business confirmed that customers' credit card numbers were compromised, police said, and were being used in a variety of stores to obtain numerous items, totaling tens of thousands of dollars.

In addition to the devices needed to "skim" card numbers, stolen property obtained from these credit card numbers were discovered at the residence on Baker Street and taken into evidence, ranging from a trolling motor to large screen TV to computer parts.

There are many credit card numbers that cannot be connected with the legitimate owners at this time, police said. They are asking those individuals that have used a credit card at the All City Automotive (smog shop), that have had suspicious activity or unauthorized purchases, to contact the Escalon Police Department at (209) 691-7300.

The investigation is ongoing.