Phoenix treats credit card fraud crimes very seriously. Being charged with credit card fraud is a very upsetting and uncertain experience. Being found guilty of credit card fraud can have serious repercussions in your personal and professional lives for many years to come. Credit card fraud can include:
- Taking someone’s credit card without permission
- Possessing (or receiving) someone’s credit card without permission
- Holding onto someone’s credit card as security against a debt without their permission or with intent to defraud
- Possessing credit card data (in lieu of the actual card itself), including the 16-digit number, expiration date and three digit security code with intent to defraud
- Accepting a gift purchased with a credit card, or with credit card data you know was stolen, even if you did not steal it yourself
It is important to understand that you can be charged with credit card fraud in Phoenix just for possessing someone’s card or card information, without their permission and whether or not you actually use either for fraudulent purposes. Therefore, if you find yourself arrested and charged with credit card fraud in Phoenix, you should immediately seek out a competent, aggressive defense attorney to fight for your rights.
Credit Card Fraud and Credit Card Theft
A.R.S 13-2101 defines credit card fraud as being an unauthorized user of a credit card, debit card, smart card, stored value card, or any other credit-based device to obtain goods or services. However, A.R.S. 13-2102 defines credit card theft as physically possessing, using, controlling or stealing a credit card without the cardholder’s consent, and with the intent to defraud the cardholder
- In this regard, being charged with credit card fraud can result in a separate charge of credit card theft too, which can result in a harsher sentence and larger fines if you are convicted
Penalties for Credit Card Fraud and Theft in Phoenix
In Phoenix, credit card fraud is a class 5 felony if the amount stolen is over $250. Although in some cases you may be able to plea bargain down to a misdemeanor, doing so is not in any way a guarantee. Credit card theft is also a class 5 felony. Both are punishable by:
- Between 6 months and 2.5 years in prison, and fines of up to $150,000 plus surcharges
If the value of the theft is under $250, you face a class 1 misdemeanor, which includes:
- Up to six months in jail and fines of up to $2500 plus surcharges
If you are found guilty of knowingly receiving stolen goods as a result of credit card fraud, you can face:
- A class 1 misdemeanor for items valued up to $250
- A class 6 felony for items valued between $150 and $1000
- A class 5 felony for items valued over $1000
Trust Phoenix Criminal Attorney With Your Credit Card Fraud Crime Defense
The best way to ensure you never face the life-altering consequences of being arrested on a credit card fraud charge is to make sure you are only using cards you are authorized to use, in the manner you are authorized to use them. However, if you find yourself arrested and charged with credit card fraud or theft, it is essential to consult a defense attorney with proven experience defending credit card fraud crimes of all severities. We will not stop fighting for your rights, by making sure that every possible legal option and defense strategy is available to you. If you are facing any kind of credit card fraud or theft charge in Phoenix, contact us today for a private, no obligation consultation at 602-551-8092.
