Investigators found that the suspects also used other delivery services, like DoorDash, as part of the plan. Fourteen people have been apprehended in connection with an organized fraud and theft operation involving delivery service platforms, according to the Kent County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the probe began after Amazon reported that third-party delivery drivers were paid to deliver items but were stealing pieces of them. Officials stated that the drivers, known as “Amazon Flex” drivers, are independent contractors and not directly hired by the corporation.
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Investigators found that the suspects also used other delivery services, like DoorDash, as part of the plan.
According to investigators, the group used false identities to construct multiple driver profiles. The suspects allegedly used these accounts to collect payments while simultaneously stealing items marked for delivery.
According to the sheriff’s office, the suspects were staying at local motels while conducting the operation. Authorities also discovered equipment used to create fraudulent out-of-state identification cards.
Search warrants resulted in the recovery of computers, printers used to create counterfeit IDs, substantial sums of money, and stolen goods.
Officials claimed the group is thought to be linked to a South American thievery organization with ties to Venezuela and that the case mirrors a rising national trend.
All 14 suspects were arrested and charged with running a criminal business. The investigation is underway.
