Athens Police have issued 15 arrests warrants for a 28-year old Florida woman on various fraud charges. A media release from the department states Emma McIlwain is part of a large Felony Lane Gang.
That name stems from the location they prefer to commit fraudulent transactions-a bank’s drive thru lane farthest from the teller, dubbed the “felony lane” by law enforcement.
Police say in September, McIlwain visited Athens and stole credit cards, checks and id from a victim’s car in Ben Burton Park.
She is accused of withdrawing almost $22,000 for banks in Athens, Winder and Watkinsville. McIlwain is currently in Montana where is also facing charges. She faces 14 felony charges and one misdemeanor in Athens.
In order to commit the fraudulent transactions, the gang commits other crimes such as entering autos, identity theft/fraud, and forgeries.
Detective Nathaniel Franco says felony Lane Gangs have targeted Athens several times over the last year.
“These gangs operate in broad daylight and wait for individuals to leave their vehicle to pick up children, take a walk, or workout,” said Detective Franco, who has been with the ACCPD for over 11years. “It is important to always remove valuable items from your vehicle. If you are a victim, you should contact the ACCPD but also remember to reach out to your bank and credit card companies, as well as keep a close eye on your accounts to prevent fraudulent transactions.”
These gangs select parks, daycares, gyms, and other public places where purses or wallets are left in vehicles. A gang member breaks the vehicle window, grabs a purse or wallet, and then leaves the area in a rented car, frequently with a stolen tag.