In a recent press release, the Murrieta Police Department announced a significant breakthrough in an identity theft and commercial fraud series that targeted a local retail store. The arrest of a 65-year-old suspect sheds light on a broader criminal operation involving fraudulent purchases exceeding $70,000.
The investigation, initiated in early January 2024, focused on a series of incidents at a Murrieta retail store. The suspect, identified as Mindy Lee Stovall from Santa Ana, CA, allegedly entered the store on multiple occasions between December 5, 2023, and January 12, 2024. Using stolen identities and forged checks, Stovall purportedly made fraudulent purchases totaling thousands of dollars.
Surveillance footage provided crucial evidence, leading detectives to identify Stovall as the primary suspect. Further inquiries revealed that Stovall was suspected of similar crimes across California and was already a suspect in a fraud series in Orange County.
To apprehend Stovall, Murrieta Police Detectives, in collaboration with various law enforcement agencies, executed a search warrant on January 31, 2024, at a Menifee residence associated with the suspect. The operation involved the Murrieta Special Enforcement Team, Central Post Release Accountability Team, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Orange County Sheriff’s Department Investigators.
During the search, detectives detained Stovall and discovered thousands of fraudulent documents believed to be connected to the crime series. Additionally, personal information belonging to over six hundred individuals was confiscated. Stovall now faces charges under various sections of the Penal Code, including forgery and identity theft.
The arrest of Mindy Lee Stovall marks a significant achievement in the ongoing battle against identity theft and commercial fraud. The collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies have not only led to the apprehension of a suspect but also the confiscation of evidence crucial to the investigation. As the case unfolds, the Murrieta Police Department encourages anyone with information to contact Corporal Kris Spencer or Detective Sergeant Miguel Garcia.
When visiting events and local businesses, be sure to tell them Macaroni KID sent you... and don't forget to tell all your friends!
 |  |  |
