Alleged identity theft ring member faces up to 40 years in prison
A New York man accused of being part of an identity theft ring faces up to 40 years in prison if he fails to pay back more than $10,000 in restitution and fines.
Wai Chung Khoong, 38, pleaded guilty to charges of first-degree larceny and first-degree identity theft at state Superior Court in Stamford Monday.
Khoong was arrested by Greenwich police in September 2019 on charges that he ordered more than $41,000 of merchandise using a stolen identity.
Police said Khoong obtained a person’s identity, then began making phone orders to have merchandise shipped to various locations. The calls aroused suspicion, authorities said, and a stakeout was set up, leading to the arrest.
“One package was scheduled to be delivered in Port Chester, N.Y. Officers responded to the area and located Khoong accepting delivery of the package,” police said at the time. “He was subsequently taken into custody by New York officers. Greenwich investigators then obtained a warrant for his arrest on the Greenwich violations.”
Deputy Assistant State’s Attorney Thai Chhay said, during the ensuing investigation, Khoong confessed to being a part of an identity theft and larceny ring that uses stolen identities to ship expensive items from places like Saks Fifth Avenue to various different locations.
As a part of the plea deal, Khoong was given six months to pay $3,260 in restitution, a $10,000 fine and his court fees.
Judge Gary White said Khoong needs to have the money ready by his next court date on Aug. 23, or he faces up to 20 years per charge.