Fraudulently obtained goods: An additional offense on top of card fraud

In South Carolina, it’s a crime to use another person’s financial transaction card to obtain money, goods, or services. Regardless of the type of card used to make the fraudulent transaction – whether it’s a credit or debit card – the offense is a misdemeanor that leads to up to a year of prison and $1,000 in fines.

But did you know that receiving goods and services fraudulently obtained through the above crime is a separate and punishable offense?

Criminally receiving goods and services, according to law

According to South Carolina law, it’s unlawful for a person to receive anything of value that was obtained through a fraudulent financial transaction card.

It’s essential to understand that this offense and financial transaction card fraud are separate charges. As long as a person fraudulently used another person’s card to make a transaction and received goods or services through the deceit, they can face both charges.

The penalties for criminally receiving goods

The penalties for criminally receiving goods and services fraudulently obtained can be severe. The punishment may vary depending on the value of the goods or services:

• Value of fraudulently obtained money, goods or services is $1,000 or less in any six-month period: The offense is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to a year of imprisonment and $2,000 in fines.
• Value of fraudulently obtained money, goods or services is more than $1,000 in any six-month period: The offense is a felony, punishable by up to five years of imprisonment and $3,000 in fines.

If the person was also convicted of financial transaction card fraud, the penalties for that offense can quickly add up to the sentence and fines for criminal receipt of goods.

In conclusion, South Carolina takes both offenses very seriously. Understanding the nuances between these charges and the potential penalties is essential for anyone involved in handling financial transaction cards and goods. If you find yourself facing one or both charges, keep in mind that a legal professional may be able to provide you with guidance on your specific case.