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Arrests Made In Multi-County Fraud Crime Spree
August 30, 2013
A woman wanted for in connection with multiple fraud cases spanning from Baldwin County to Okaloosa County has been arrested.
Escambia County Sheriff’s Office property crimes investigators said 27-year old Tia Nichole Smith made purchases from area businesses, mainly jewelry and antique stores, by writing checks on a closed checking account. Smith would then sell the items to local pawn shops. On more than one occasion, investigators said Smith was accompanied by36-year old Michael John Garay.. Surveillance video also showed Smith in the company of two children, a boy and a girl, as some of the crimes were being committed.
Smith was booked into the Escambia County Jail on multiple worthless check, fraud and larceny charges. Her total bond was set at $205,972.72. Garay was charged with multiple worthless check offenses and booked into jail with bond set at $423.50.
Investigators said the crime spree began in June, and the investigation is still ongoing. Any business that may have been victimized by Smith is asked to contact the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office at (850) 436-9620 or their local law enforcement agency.
Comments
4 Responses to “Arrests Made In Multi-County Fraud Crime Spree”
I am so sad…. Tia has been my long time friend. I have not spoken to her in a year or 2… but I never could have imagined she would do this. I feel that this was due to an addiction on Roxy’s…. that she has only suffered from the past 2 years. So sad. So very very sad. I hope this shows the both of them to go the right path
I am glad they were finally caught. I hope they lose their kids. Raising children in a criminal home and taking them with you when you commit crimes is beyond wrong. Tis and Michael still have a chance to straighten up and live right. There is always hope.
Hmm. Its weird how people can’t figure out that if you engage in fraudulent activity you will be caught. Its not a matter of IF but WHEN. Then you’ll be set back even further. Life is NOT that difficult.
If you cannot figure out that you have to actually work and hold a job or two down to make money, then you’re going to live a crappy life.
What you see here are two people who are ungreatful to be Americans. When you lie, cheat or steal inan unlawful manner you are disrespecting the US Constitutions, founding fathers, and everyone who fought and died in battle for you to be free.
At the very least, be honest and actually work for your money. If you are unhappy with having to work, then you don’t deserve to be an American. There are plenty of people who want to work and be a law abiding citizen who could take your place and actually produce as a member of society.
Just a shame all around. Shame on these people.
My sister has a booth in one of the antique malls around here.While she didn`t suffer any loss,I feel for the owner,as she had to take 500.00 out of her own pocket,to repay the vendors,because of her bad check.I also feel bad for her kids.