May 24, 2002 – The Michigan State Police (MSP) Computer Crimes Unit (CCU) of Southeast Criminal Investigation Division (SECID) has announced its largest arrest to date after a lengthy investigation involving over $1 million in Internet credit card fraud.

"The Computer Crimes Unit has taken on countless cases since its start in October of 2000," stated D/Lt. Brian Albright, unit commander of the SECID, CCU. "It is rewarding to see the evidence, hard work, and cooperation of those involved come together to make such a substantial arrest."

On August 28, 2001, the Warren Police Department referred a case of credit card fraud and stolen identity accomplished through purchases via the Internet to the CCU of SECID. The CCU began a joint investigation on August 28, 2001, with Priceline.com Fraud Department. During the course of the investigation, it was learned that an elderly woman from Warren received a credit card bill of $10,000 for fraudulent purchases through Priceline.com.

A 20-count felony warrant was soon issued for Freeman Devon Mitchell of Detroit. With the assistance of the Detroit Metro ID Fraud Task Force, Mitchell has been linked to a large-scale fraud ring in the Metro Detroit area. The Michigan State Police Fugitive Team arrested Mitchell on the morning of May 22, 2002, at his mother’s residence on Pembroke Street in Detroit.

Mitchell was brought before the 36th District Court in Detroit where his bond was set at $500,000 cash. The CCU will continue with the investigation.

The Southeastern Criminal Investigation Division, Computer Crimes Unit of the Michigan State Police has been established to provide computer and Internet investigative support in the acquisition of digital evidence for the law enforcement community.

For further information, contact:

D/Lt. Brian K. Albright, 734-525-4579

Unit Commander, Computer Crimes 

D/Tpr. Derrick Carroll 734-525-4496