ESCALON — Escalon Police have broken up an identity theft and credit card fraud operation.

After a lengthy investigation, two search warrants were served on Feb. 29.  These warrants targeted two locations in Escalon, All City Automotive at 1910 Main Street, and a residence on the 1800 Block of Baker Avenue.

Two men were detained, questioned and released pending further investigation.  Items seized at the business confirmed that customer’s credit card numbers were compromised and being used in a variety of stores to obtain numerous items, totaling tens of thousands of dollars.

In addition to the devices needed to “skim” card numbers, stolen property obtained from these credit card numbers were discovered at the residence on Baker Street and taken into evidence.

There are many credit card numbers that cannot be connected with the legitimate owners at this time.  Police are asking those individuals that have used a credit cards at the All City Automotive (smog shop), that have had suspicious activity or unauthorized purchases, to contact the Escalon Police Department at (209) 691-7300.