Police: Suspect Used Stolen Identity To Place Bets, Collect Winnings

SMITHFIELD, N.C. –– What began with a probation officer checking a vehicle in a parking lot led Smithfield Police to an identity theft investigation involving allegedly stolen credit and banking cards.

Twyla Akya Battle, 24, of Whisper Oaks Court, Smithfield, was arrested Aug. 21 and charged with eight felony counts of identity theft.

Police said Battle had accompanied her boyfriend to the N.C. Probation Office on Berkshire Road for an appointment with his probation officer.

During a random check of the boyfriend’s vehicle in the parking lot, the probation officer reportedly located a handgun and called Smithfield Police to assist.

Police said the boyfriend is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm. Battle reportedly told officers the gun belonged to her.

A further search of the vehicle turned up multiple credit and banking cards along with several cell phones, according to investigators.

Police allege Battle used cards belonging to other people to place bets and then collect the winnings.

Investigators are now working to identify and contact the cardholders. Police said the victims identified so far are from the Rocky Mount area.

The investigation remains active, and additional charges are possible.