On March 1 Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies received a report in reference to Michael L. John, 31, Lake Charles, possibly using stolen credit card numbers to purchase a hotel room at a local hotel in Lake Charles.

During the initial investigation, it was confirmed John was using stolen credit card numbers and had fraudulently charged over $1,000 at the local hotel. During further investigation detectives executed a search warrant on John’s room and located numerous credit cards along with a notebook containing instructions on how to obtain individuals’ credit card numbers. Detectives also located marijuana, methamphetamines, and drug paraphernalia inside the room. Detectives later learned John was fraudulently modifying credit cards using an electronic tablet and then uploading them online and making transactions.

John was arrested and booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center and charged with identity theft from $1,000 but less than $5,000; computer fraud; possession of CDS II; possession of marijuana; and possession of drug paraphernalia. Judge Tony Fazzio set his bond at $18,500.

The investigation is continuing and more charges are possible.

CPSO Detectives Shelli Fontenot and Kent Castille are the lead investigators on this case.