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PD: PHX man busted for 'renting' his social security card

Juan Carlos Medina.jpg
Posted at 4:00 PM, Aug 28, 2019
and last updated 2019-08-28 19:00:27-04

PHOENIX — A Phoenix man was arrested for reportedly renting his U.S. Social Security card for employment and tax benefits.

Phoenix police report that on August 21, an undercover officer made arrangements to meet with Juan Carlos Medina, 22, to rent his social security card for $250.

The officer met Medina at his home near 19th Avenue and Camelback Road. Medina allegedly told the officer that he wanted to rent his social security number "to a person he could trust because it's a serious matter."

Medina filled out the officer's W-2 form and allowed him to photograph his ID and social security card. Police say the deal was for Medina to enable the man to use his social security number to gain employment. He was also allowed to keep any tax deductions. Medina would get $250 and claim the man as a dependent on his taxes.

Upon his arrest, Medina allegedly admitted to claiming relatives who live in Mexico as dependents on his taxes. He said he's been doing this for the past two years, police say.

He has been charged with aggravated ID theft and fraud.