TJ Maxx Identity Theft Scheme Gets Westchester Man 14 Years: Cops

WESTCHESTER, IL — A Westchester man has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for a string of fraudulent purchases and merchandise returns that officials say totaled as much $17,000. Jason Hodges, 43, of the 700 block of Hull Avenue, was convicted of four counts of retail theft, two counts of identity theft, and one count of theft in connection with the incidents.

According to authorities, Hodges used stolen credit card information to buy merchandise at at four different TJ Maxx and Marshall's stores in Cook County between May 12, 2014 and June 5, 2014. Hodges then returned the items to a store in Lombard and had the refund credited to his personal credit cards.

Officials say Hodges kept single transactions under $300, possibly to avoid felony charges, but that his "extensive criminal background" led to him being charged with felonies.

Hodges must serve 50% of his 14-year sentence before he becomes eligible for parole.

Image via DuPage County State's Attorney's Office