Suspect in Multi-State Fraud Ring Arrested in Athens-Clarke County

On June 7, 2024, at approximately 4:26 PM, Athens-Clarke County Police responded to a business on Lexington Road regarding a suspect involved in a multi-state fraud ring. Officers approached the suspect, who was attempting to make a large purchase using a fraudulently obtained account number.

The suspect provided numerous false names, but was eventually identified as Anthony Phillips, 60, of Nevada. Phillips is suspected of being involved in the theft of several million dollars worth of merchandise across the country.

During the investigation, officers recovered $1,800 in stolen merchandise and a quantity of fentanyl from Phillips. He has been charged with Theft by Receiving Stolen Property, Giving False Information to Law Enforcement Officers, and Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Substance. Phillips also has outstanding warrants from other jurisdictions related to the fraud ring.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Sergeant O’Neill at brian.oneill@accgov.com or 762-400-7375.