Georgia Man Accused of $800,000 Home Depot Equipment Rental Scam

Georgia man indicted on federal charges for alleged fraud Home Depot More than $800,000 was obtained through an organized rental fraud.

Yasin Saleem and his collaborators are accused of using fake driver’s licenses and bank cards to rent expensive equipment they never returned, causing damage to the store.

“Saleem’s retail theft scheme not only resulted in significant financial losses Home Depot But it highlights the complex and pervasive nature of organized retail crime,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke of Atlanta. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

“This indictment highlights the need for strong, collaborative efforts between the FBI and private sector partners to effectively combat such threats.”

The fake debit cards carried the exact amount needed to fulfill the rental. But when Home Depot Employees tried to charge cards for stolen equipment, funds were insufficient.

The crew also disabled the rental cars’ GPS so authorities could not locate them. They also used stolen license plates to avoid detection.

Authorities highlight this scheme as an example of sophisticated retail theft and emphasize the need for cooperation between law enforcement and private businesses against such crimes.

Saleem was arraigned in Atlanta on October 25, 2024. The FBI is leading the investigation and the case will be prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.