3 people are facing multiple charges following CPD fraud and theft investigation

COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — The Columbus Police Department’s Property Crimes Unit has uncovered a fraud and theft investigation on Wednesday, leading to three people facing multiple charges.

Those charges are in reference to fraudulent activity, drugs and a stolen firearm.

20-year-old Deshaun Peralta was arrested for Financial Transaction Card Theft, Financial Transaction Card Fraud x2, Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute, and Theft by Receiving (Firearm).

17-year-old Tyrese Galloway was arrested for Theft by Receiving (Firearm).

40-year-old Yasmin Peralta was arrested for Theft by Receiving (Firearm).

According to CDP, investigators received reports of fraudulent bank card use over the past several weeks. The investigation led to identifying Deshaun Peralta as a suspect employed as a server at Longhorn Steakhouse on Macon Road.

He was reportedly photographing customer bank card numbers while processing payments and using that information to funnel thousands of dollars to himself in a variety of ways.

Officers executed a search warrant at Peralta’s residence and recovered a money counter, 47.2 grams of marijuana, several cell phones, and an AR-15 rifle that had been reported stolen.

Peralta, his brother, and his mother were taken into custody. Investigators have identified multiple victims, and additional charges are expected as the investigation continues.

A Recorder’s Court hearing is scheduled for Thursday at 1:30 p.m.

CPD encourages anyone who believes they may have been affected to contact the department’s
Property Crimes Unit at 706-225-3151.