Alleged crime ring uncovered in Boston

BOSTON (WHDH) -- Federal, state and local investigators announced Thursday that they made an arrest in an extensive criminal operation that allegedly involved identity theft, counterfeit money and high-end electronics.

Shahab “David” Yousheei, 36, of Brighton was arrested Thursday on the Boston Common after allegedly trying to buy counterfeit money. He is accused of an extensive criminal enterprise in Boston’s Downtown Crossing, according to Attorney General Martha Coakley. Officials said Yousheei operated a kiosk inside Time Products, a jewelry store on Washington Street. He is accused of selling iPads and other high-end electronics that were purchased with stolen credit cards.

“This case illustrates the new face of crime -- one that uses computers as a weapon of choice, one that robs people of their identities and their financial information instead of just their possessions,” Coakley said Thursday.

Coakley said Yousheei would steal credit card information -- sometimes at the jewelry store -- then use the phony cards to buy electronics like smart phones.

“Runners who were paid by [Yousheei] used those accounts to obtain smart phones and other high-end electronics at discounted prices from stores across the Commonwealth,” said Coakley.

The runners would get those phones from places like Apple at big discounts for agreeing to a two-year service contract and then sell the phones on the street or abroad for a big premium.

Police said their undercover investigation ultimately led to evidence Yousheei created stolen credit cards. They said on Thursday he was caught buying counterfeit money.

“Today is a good day. We’ve taken a dangerous criminal off the street. The investigation is ongoing. More arrests are anticipated,” said Commissioner Ed Davis of the Boston police department.

Boston police arrested at least two other men on unspecified charges. A jewelry repairman told 7News he was handcuffed, but was later released.

Police are urging anyone who was a customer at Time Products to check their credit card records and credit rating for anything suspicious. Contact authorities if there is anything questionable.

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