Police: Thief Steals Checks, Impersonates Victims

ATLANTA -- Authorities said investigators believe they are close to cracking a multi-state identity theft ring with ties to metro Atlanta.

Investigators said they believe members of the ring steal IDs and checkbooks and then try to impersonate their victims.

GA Daily News reporter Tony Thomas spoke to a victim on Sunday. She said the passenger window of her vehicle was busted out and everything inside was taken, including her wallet, ID and checkbook. But investigators said they do not believe the theft was random. Officials said members of the ring follow and target their victims.

Amanda Dobanton said so far, two checks have been written on her account totaling $7,000.

Police in Alabama said a surveillance camera caught a woman trying to cash one of Dobanton’s checks – and she looks similar to Dobanton.

Police believe the thief wears wigs and makeup in an attempt to look like her victims.

”It’s hard knowing every day that someone is trying to be me and to steal everything I’ve worked for and could destroy a lot of things, said Dobanton.

Police in Alabama have identified victims in three states, but believe the ring is Atlanta-based.

Officials have surveillance video of a woman pulling up to an ATM in a car that was rented in December in Atlanta.

”In ten years, I haven’t seen one like this. I’ve seen plenty of stolen checks and forged checks and car break-ins, but I’ve never seen someone in disguise trying to look like a victim, said Cpl. Jason Vannoy of the Daphne, Ala. Police Department.

Vannoy said he believes there is one or two men working with the woman seen on the surveillance video.

”I’m sure there are tons of victims that we haven’t identified yet, said Dobanton.

Detectives told Thomas they believe the total take for the theft ring is well above $100,000.