MICHIGAN CITY, Ind. – The fryer isn’t the only thing heating up at a local Hardee’s.
An audacious scheme has come to light, allegedly involving several employees who covertly photographed drive-thru customers’ debit and credit cards. The deceit, unfolding in August and September, was aimed at bailing out inmates by depositing fraudulent funds into their Securus accounts.
Jail officials, led by Commander Captain Andrew Hahn, began unraveling the plot after noticing suspicious fund deposits. Their investigation pinpointed a staggering $14,700 in fraudulent charges. The swift bail and subsequent ATM withdrawals by the inmates rang alarm bells, paving the way for the bust.
The roster of the accused includes Darrien R. Ward, Prince C. Arnold, Kristin R. Vanschoyck, Madison M. Zuk, Anisa C. Higginbotham, Hollie D. Lachapelle, Carissa A. Bealor, Lawrence Armstrong, Moesha Monique Savanna Payne, and Dylnn V. Scott. Nine of the culprits are behind bars, but Scott remains at large.
Authorities are urging public cooperation to nab Scott. Tips can be directed to FAST at (219-608-9572) or Michiana Crime Stoppers at (800-342-7867). Meanwhile, the defrauded customers have been working with their banks to recover their losses. It’s unknown exactly how many customers were affected in the case.
