From Tribune staff reports
LEEDS — A shoplifting call from Buc-ee’s in Leeds and subsequent arrest of the suspect, who is a U.S. Postal worker, led to additional charges for identity theft and possession of stolen credit cards.
On Sunday, Sept. 22, Leeds Police Officers were dispatched to 6900 Buc-ee’s Blvd. in reference to a shoplifting call.
“Officers arrived on scene, and after determining a theft had occurred, Amber Michelle Beard, 39, of Calera, AL was taken into custody without incident,” LPD officials said.
According to police, a search of Beard’s purse revealed stolen merchandise from the business, a multitude of credit/debit cards and other identifying documents belonging to other individuals. Additionally, officers said they located items believed to be U.S. mail not addressed to Beard.
“Beard abruptly informed Officers that she was employed by the United States Postal Service,” officials said.
During the officers’ investigation, Police officials said it was determined stolen merchandise was inside of Beard’s vehicle.
“Officers located a plethora of U.S. mail addressed to various individuals in the Birmingham area, including credit/debit cards, checks, gift cards, and Alabama Driver’s Licenses,” LPS officials said.
Police said that while Beard acted in her official capacity employed by the United States Postal Service, she opened U.S. mail not addressed to her, removed items from the mail packaging, such as checks, debit/cards, and gift cards, and fraudulently used them.
Beard is charged with trafficking in stolen identities, five counts of illegal possession of a credit/debit card, and 4th degree theft of property. She is incarcerated in the Jefferson County Jail with a total bond of $80,500.
Officials said the investigation is on-going and additional charges are pending as more victims are identified.
