SCOTTSBORO, Ala. — A Scottsboro woman is facing multiple charges after police say she used a customer’s credit card information to make unauthorized purchases while working at a local gas station.
According to the Scottsboro Police Department, Rachel Burton, a former employee at a BP gas station in Scottsboro, was arrested following an investigation into alleged credit card theft.
Rachel Burton | Photo: Scottsboro Police
Investigators said the incident occurred after the station’s pay-at-the-pump system became temporarily unavailable. Police said Burton asked a customer to leave his credit card with her while he pumped fuel to ensure payment was completed.
Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators allegedly showed Burton writing down or photographing the customer’s card information while he was outside fueling his vehicle.
The customer later discovered unauthorized transactions on his account and reported the activity to police. Authorities said Burton allegedly completed three unauthorized purchases using the stolen card information, while several additional transaction attempts were declined.
Investigators say the case serves as a reminder for residents to closely monitor their financial accounts and quickly report any suspicious activity.
Police said Burton has been charged with Identity Theft, Fraudulent Use of a Credit/Debit Card, and Fourth-Degree Theft of Property.
The owner of the BP station confirmed Burton had been employed at the business for approximately one week and said the company does not tolerate theft or fraudulent activity.
In addition to the arrest, Scottsboro police are warning residents about a separate scam involving callers posing as federal agents. Authorities said the scammers instruct victims to place cash, gift cards, checks, or other valuables in their mailboxes for pickup.
Police emphasize that legitimate law enforcement agencies will never request payment or valuables in this manner.
Anyone who believes they may have been the victim of identity theft, credit card fraud, or a financial scam is encouraged to contact the Scottsboro Police Department immediately.