Identity theft is a serious crime. It occurs when your personal information is stolen and used without your knowledge to commit fraud or other crimes.  It can destroy your credit and ruin your good name.  The DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with the Federal Trade Commission to provide residents with information on how to Deter, Detect, and Defend against becoming a victim of identity theft.  

Upon request, the Sheriff’s Office will provide a representative to speak with community groups and organizations to discuss the Deter, Detect, and Defend strategy against identity theft.  To arrange a presentation, contact Detective Sergeant Jered Shofner at 217-935-9507 or jshofner@dewittcountyill.com 

Important links with more information on identity theft:

If you have believe you have been a victim of Identity Theft:
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/consumers/defend.html

Deter, Detect, and Defend Brochure:
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/pubs/consumer/idtheft/idt01.pdf

Federal Trade Commission:
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/consumers/about-identity-theft.html
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/become-a-partner.html#Video

Identity Theft Resource Center:
http://www.idtheftcenter.org/index.html 

Illinois Attorney General Identity Theft Hotline:  1-877-844-5461