FORT PIERCE, Fla. (CBS12) — He checked into a hotel under a fake name, and checked out with over 50 fake IDs, passports, and stolen checks in tow.
The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office (IRCSO) said an elaborate identity theft ring was dismantled following a joint undercover operation with assistance the St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office.
The takedown was set in motion after Linus Cadillac of Vero Beach reported a suspicious vehicle purchase attempt using what appeared to be fake documents, according to the IRCSO news release. The suspect had asked that the car be delivered to a Fort Pierce hotel, which quickly became the operation’s focal point.
That suspect — 39-year-old Philippe Canell — was arrested during the sting, according to IRCSO…