Behind the Badge
A narcotics investigation by Huntington Beach police led to the discovery of an identity theft fraud ring and the arrest of two suspects.
Police on Sept. 18 served a search warrant at a Costa Mesa residence related to a methamphetamine dealer police said was selling drugs in Huntington Beach.
During their search, detectives found evidence that pointed to an identify theft fraud ring, along with methamphetamine, police said.
Names, social security numbers and account information from multiple victims were found in the residence, police said.
Brandon Brown, 26, of Fountain Valley and Lauren Schneider, 28, of Huntington Beach were arrested on suspicion of narcotic possession for sales.
Brown was released after posting a $120,000 bond, and Schneider was also released after posting a $200,000 bond.
Huntington Beach detectives with the Economic Crimes Unit partnered with agents from the United States Secret Service to investigate the fraud operation.
Brown and Schneider were again arrested Nov. 5 on suspicion of several charges including possession of counterfeit U.S. currency, possession of personal information profiles, and possession of unauthorized access devices.
The suspects are in federal custody pending these new charges, police said.
