Outstanding warrants from other counties were the reason for a traffic stop, but it was what was found in the car that led to multiple Jones County charges.
Matthew Jacoby Williams was arrested April 8 and charged with six counts related to possession of fake identification documents and six more counts of identity fraud. He is currently in the custody of the Jones County jail without bond.
Jones County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Travis Walker stated in his report of the arrest that he was monitoring traffic on Highway 49 and Shurling Drive in the early morning hours of April 8 when he received an alert that the driver of a Mercedes was wanted in Bibb County and Atlanta.
Walker made a traffic stop and informed the driver the reason for the stop. The sergeant said Williams told him he was not aware of the warrants.
The officer placed the suspect in the back seat of his car and proceeded to inventory the Mercedes. He said he noticed a book bag on the front passenger seat. The book bag was filled with debit cards, social security cards, gift cards and several mobile phones.
Walker said the gift cards had receipts that averaged around $500 per card. Identification cards with six different names were also found in the bag.
“Based on my knowledge, training and experience it is apparent that Williams is committing identity fraud,” the sergeant stated.
Walker said Williams was transported to the JCSO. He said while the suspect was waiting in the booking area, he asked if he could have ‘his’ book bag back.
“Which indicated the bag did belong to him,” the officer added.
Sheriff Butch Reece announced Williams’ arrest with a Facebook post.
“Williams has a long criminal history and is now facing six charges for having fake ID documents and five charges related to financial card fraud,” he said.
Reece said the investigation is still ongoing, and more charges may be added.
“We’re committed to keeping our community safe by getting dangerous individuals off the streets. If you have any information related to this case, please contact Lt. Kenny Gleaton,” he said.
