KMPH Fox 26 Central San Joaquin Valley News Source in Fresno, California Entertainment, News, Sports and Weather | Bulldog Gang members Prey on Elderly in Identity Theft Scams

Bulldog Gang members Prey on Elderly in Identity Theft Scams

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By: Ariana Duarte & Ashley Ritchie

Identity theft is the fastest growing crime in the United States and now Fresno police say Bulldog gang members are behind the problem locally.

"They are in the business of committing crimes and they really don't care who their victims are," Jerry Dyer, Fresno Police Chief, said.

In fact, according to police, when it comes to crimes like this one, crooks tend to prey on the elderly population.

"They grew up in a time when people were more trusting and these types of crimes didn't exists," said Don Gross, Fresno Police Department.

Four suspects of identity theft and elder abuse are in custody after a 7- month investigation tied them to at least 52 victims ranging in age from 27 to 97 years old.

Among other charges Jesus Ledesma, 24, a validated Bulldog gang member faces 83 counts of identity theft and 10 counts of elder abuse.

His bail is set at $1-million.

His girlfriend, 26-year old Linda Arreola, faces three counts of identity theft and one count of elder abuse.

Gilbert Chavez, 30, who is also a Bulldog gang member, has been arrested on 61 counts of identity theft and four counts of elder abuse.

Juan Hernandez, 22, has also been connected with the crimes and faces one count of identity theft.

"We are going to do everything in our power as a law-enforcement agency to eliminate the Bulldog gang, and this is again, one step toward that," said Dyer.

The District Attorney's office warns residents that identity theft predators usually contact their victims by phone, posing as officials and asking for social security and family history. They later use the information to open up credit cards.

"Any financial institution that you do business with is already in possession of your personal identifying information such as your name, your date of birth, your social security numbers, and your account numbers. And they will never call you soliciting this information," Stephanie Savrnoch, Fresno County District Attorney's Office.

Officials say if you suspect you may be a victim of identity theft, contact authorities at (559) 228-2764.