Identity theft protection might not seem like a big deal to some folks. After all, most banks and credit card companies only hold you responsible for the first $50 or so when your card has been used fraudulently. The cost of identity theft protection seems to outweigh those small amounts you might be liable for.
However, you need to consider something else. Identity theft can create more than just minor financial difficulties. It can really ruin your entire life.
Take, for example, the case in Port Orchard, Washington. A man by the name of Dan Wheeler had his wallet stolen more than 15 years ago. Over the next few months, the thief used Wheeler’s identity not merely for financial gain, but to commit sex crimes.
The sex offender used Wheeler’s name as an alias, and Wheeler’s life has come undone since then.
In 2005, Wheeler was involved in a minor traffic violation. He made a left turn at an intersection where no left turns were allowed. The officer who pulled Wheeler over approached the car, after running Wheeler’s identity through police computers. The officer asked Wheeler to get out of the car, and informed him that he was under arrest.
When Wheeler asked why he was under arrest, the officer informed him that he was a wanted sex offender.
Wheeler has had difficulty getting a job in any situation that requires a background check. Wheeler even had his foster parent application denied, because he was registered as a sex offender.
The battle to clear his name has been a losing one. Wheeler has spoken with police as well as prosecutors, who have informed him that nothing could be done. It’s the policy of the Washington State Patrol, which is the department in charge of the sex offender database, that when an alias is used it is kept on file forever.
It’s not known if Wheeler has considered suing the State, and there are some experts who believe he may have a case. Of course, the challenge would be paying for an attorney, as he’s had a horrible time finding work, largely due to failed background checks.
Photo via davidsonscott15
