A woman from Millsboro, Delaware, was recently arrested for 12 charges of identity theft, criminal impersonation, and home improvement fraud.
Lana Preston, 53, allegedly took part in a home improvement scam focusing on older homeowners, according to WDEL. She allegedly told victims that she worked on behalf of a religious missionary group that helped homeowners with home repairs.
She used a checking account of a missionary group based in Delaware, without its permission, the news source reported. Preston told consumers her home repairs were allowed to be deducted on tax forms.
The access to the missionary’s bank account allowed Preston to collect approximately $17,000 in building supplies and lumber, according to the news source. She never paid the company for the materials she purchased.
Authorities charged the alleged thief with multiple felonies and misdemeanors, the news source added. She was released from custody on a secured bond worth $35,000.
Before accepting the help of an organization, consumers should make sure to research the organization thoroughly to ascertain whether it is legitimate. Often, criminals will use fake companies as a way to commit identity theft.