Title: Crime Blotter: iPhone Thefts and AirTags to the Rescue in Latest Apple News
Subtitle: North Carolina Store Owner Sentenced, Parents’ Phones Stolen, and Innovative Use of AirTags in Crime Prevention
Byline: Stephen Silver | Sep 15, 2024
In a series of recent events highlighting the ongoing struggle with smartphone thefts, a North Carolina businessman has received a substantial prison sentence for his involvement in a large-scale iPhone theft scheme. Meanwhile, innovative uses of Apple’s AirTags have proven effective in preventing and solving thefts.
North Carolina Businessman Sentenced for iPhone Thefts
A former cell phone store owner in North Carolina has been sentenced to 68 months in prison for his role in a scheme to sell thousands of stolen iPhones. Rami Mahmod Mhana, who was convicted in 2023, was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. Mhana was charged with conspiracy, international transportation of stolen goods, and money laundering. The Department of Justice reported that Mhana had purchased and sold stolen Apple iPhones, primarily in the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong.
Mother Accused of Stealing Children’s iPhones During Court Visitation
In Pennsylvania, a woman has been charged with stealing two iPhones from her children during a court-ordered visitation. The 43-year-old woman is accused of taking an iPhone SE and iPhone 12 during her visitation session. She is charged with two counts of theft by Unlawful Taking-Movable Property. The incident highlights the potential risks involved in supervised visitation arrangements.
AirTags Used to Prevent Mail Theft in California
A creative use of Apple’s AirTags has led to the arrest of two individuals suspected of mail theft in California. A woman who had experienced multiple thefts from her post office box sent herself a package containing an AirTag. When the package was stolen, law enforcement was able to track the AirTag, leading to the arrest of the suspects. The two individuals are charged with possession of checks with intent to commit fraud, conspiracy, and identity and credit card theft. The man is also charged with burglary and multiple outstanding warrants.
Porch Pirate Arrested in Connecticut
In a separate incident, a man in Connecticut was arrested after attempting to steal a newly delivered iPad from in front of a house. The 26-year-old Bronx man was confronted by the homeowner and fled the scene, leaving the package behind. He was charged with fourth-degree larceny.
These cases underscore the challenges that law enforcement faces in combating smartphone theft and the innovative ways that technology, such as AirTags, can be used to deter and solve such crimes. As technology continues to evolve, so too do the methods used by both victims and perpetrators in the ongoing battle against theft.
Views: 0