2 accused of roles in credit card, identity theft ring

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. (AP) -- Authorities say two Sayreville residents took part in a credit card and identity theft ring that potentially netted thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise.

Middlesex County prosecutors say 37-Clare Ojeda and 38-year-old Shaun Howard were charged Wednesday with fraudulent use of a credit card, identity theft, theft by deception and conspiracy to commit identity theft.

Bail was set at $50,000 for each defendant, and it wasn't known if either one has retained an attorney.

Prosecutors say the defendants had fraudulently obtained and used credit cards to make purchases in the names of at least seven victims since December. But the total amount taken in the thefts hasn't been determined.

The investigation began after one victim discovered an issue with credit card billing and contacted Cranford police, who initiated the probe.
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