FORT WORTH – Phillip Sean Anthony, a 42-year-old resident of Fort Worth, has been sentenced to over eight years in federal prison for passport fraud and identity theft.
According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, Anthony attempted to apply for two passports using stolen identities.
Federal authorities indicted Anthony in February 2024. He pleaded guilty in November to charges of making a false statement in a passport application and aggravated identity theft.
The investigation revealed Anthony used stolen birth certificates and debit cards to apply for the passports in 2023 and 2024.
The scheme involved the use of stolen personal information, which Anthony employed to submit passport applications.
The court held Anthony accountable for his actions and imposed a prison sentence of over eight years.
Authorities emphasize the significance of this case as part of broader efforts to combat identity theft and fraud. The federal government’s commitment to prosecuting such cases aims to deter similar criminal activities in the future.
The press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office highlights the role of law enforcement in identifying and prosecuting fraudulent behavior. It also serves as a warning to others who may consider engaging in similar activities.