N. Charleston Woman Charged with Identity Theft, Fraud

United States Attorney W. Walter Wilkins stated today that Shirley T. Watson, age 24, of North Charleston, was charged in a three-count federal Indictment with unlawful use of a Social Security Number, identity fraud, and aggravated identity theft. Federal investigators allege that Watson used the personal identification of her grandparents and a roommate without their knowledge to apply for more than $200,000.00 in student loans.

The maximum penalty Watson faces if convicted on all counts is 17 years in federal prison, plus a fine of $500,000.00.

Mr. Wilkins stated that the case was investigated by inspectors of the United States Postal Inspection Service and that he has assigned the case to Assistant United States Attorney Dean H. Secor of the Charleston office for prosecution.

The United States Attorney stated that all charges in this Indictment are merely accusations and that all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.