As federal authorities report a significant, continued surge in credit card fraud cases nationwide, veteran Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney David E. Stanley is cautioning Louisiana residents about the serious legal consequences of credit card abuse charges under Louisiana state law.

According to recent data from the Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Sentinel Network, credit card fraud remains the most common type of identity theft in America, showing a dramatic increase in reported cases compared to the same period last year, a trend consistent with the rise in financial fraud seen nationally. The surge has prompted heightened scrutiny from law enforcement agencies across Louisiana, leading to more arrests and prosecutions for violations of Louisiana Revised Statute 14:67.11, which specifically governs the unauthorized use of credit cards, a form of financial fraud distinct from general identity theft.

"We're seeing a significant uptick in clients facing credit card abuse charges, many of whom don't fully understand how Louisiana law defines these offenses or the severity of the penalties they're facing,” said David E. Stanley, who has practiced criminal defense in Baton Rouge since 1983. "These aren't just minor offenses—Louisiana law classifies certain credit card fraud cases as felonies, carrying potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $5,000, depending on the total value of the property obtained and the facts of the case."

Under Louisiana law, unauthorized use of a credit card includes a wide range of conduct beyond simple theft. The statute criminalizes using someone else's credit card information without authorization, making purchases with a revoked card, or even failing to deliver goods or services after processing a customer's payment. Business owners and employees who misuse customer payment information during legitimate transactions can also face prosecution under these provisions.

The recent surge in cases likely reflects both increased digital fraud and more proactive prosecution by district attorneys’ offices throughout the state. David E. Stanley noted that many individuals arrested for unauthorized use of a credit card may not have intended to commit fraud but made mistakes in business transactions or misunderstood their authorization to use another person's payment information.

The attorney emphasized that early intervention is crucial for anyone facing credit card abuse allegations. In Louisiana, prosecutors have discretion to pursue charges even when a complainant wishes to withdraw, because offenses such as unauthorized use of a credit card are considered crimes against the state rather than private disputes. The financial threshold for felony prosecution is also relatively low compared to other states.

David E. Stanley’s defense approach focuses on evaluating evidence of intent, carefully investigating each case, and seeking favorable resolutions in accordance with Louisiana law. His four decades of experience in Louisiana courts provide clients with knowledge of local judicial procedures and relationships with prosecutors that can prove valuable during case resolution.

The increase in credit card fraud cases has also resulted in more individuals being included in investigations, including those later determined to have no involvement. David E. Stanley noted that legitimate cardholders sometimes face accusations when family members or employees misuse their cards, or when data breaches expose their information to actual criminals.

For Louisiana residents concerned about potential credit card abuse charges or currently under investigation, David E. Stanley offers consultations to review the specifics of each case and explain available legal options. His practice serves clients throughout Baton Rouge and surrounding Louisiana communities.

For more information about legal representation in credit card or financial crime matters, visit davidstanleylaw.com or call (225) 926‑0200.

About David E. Stanley, APLC

David E. Stanley, APLC, has provided criminal defense representation in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, since 1983. The practice handles a wide range of criminal matters, including violent crimes, drug charges, sex crimes, vehicular homicide, DUI cases, and financial crimes such as credit card abuse. David E. Stanley takes a personalized approach to each case, focusing on understanding clients' unique circumstances and building defense strategies tailored to their specific situations.

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For more information about David E. Stanley, APLC, contact the company here:

David E. Stanley, APLC
David E. Stanley
225-926-0200
david@destanleylaw.com
1055 Laurel St #2, Baton Rouge, LA 70802, United States