A Pittsburgh resident has admitted to charges of access device fraud and aggravated identity theft in a federal court, as announced by Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti.
Tai Jauna Jones, aged 29, admitted guilt to two charges before United States District Judge Marilyn J. Horan. The court was informed that Jones used the dark web to obtain credit card details and other personal information of various individuals. These fraudulently obtained credit card details were provided to a manager at a Monroeville car rental facility. The manager, aware that the card details were unauthorized, rented over 140 vehicles, resulting in losses exceeding $500,000.
Judge Marilyn J. Horan has set the sentencing date for August 14, 2025. According to legal provisions, the crime carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years and a maximum of 12 years in prison, in addition to a potential fine of up to $500,000. The final sentence will consider the severity of the offense and the defendant's prior criminal record.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is representing the government in this case.
The United States Secret Service, along with the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, were responsible for the investigation leading to Jones's prosecution.