1 of 2 people identified in Marshfield business scam arrested

MARSHFIELD, Wis. (WSAW) - One of two two people accused of scamming businesses last month in Marshfield is now in custody in the Milwaukee County Jail.

Investigators said Timothy Litt was arrested by police in Greenfield on Sept. 20

Marshfield Police said on Aug. 23, Litt and a woman purchased $15,054 worth of furniture during a credit sale. During the transaction, the employee was provided a six-digit pin to force the sale through the card reader. It appeared the sale when through. The following day the duo purchased $13, 250 worth of furniture. Again in the same manner appearing as a successful sale. Marshfield Police said it was later learned both sales were declined.

Wisconsin-based State Bank has information on its website about what a forced sale is, and how scammers use it.

Their website states criminals deceive existing merchants by presenting forged bank letters that authorize “offline” transactions to pay for large sales orders to be laundered through the merchant’s account. A force-post transaction allows the merchant to bypass the authorization process by manually entering a previously obtained authorization code.

Marshfield Police say the duo also unsuccessfully targeted another store. Police say the suspects are believed to be using this scam throughout the state. A Penske rental truck is frequently used to load merchandise.

Police said the man provided a photo ID at that furniture store, which identified him as Timothy Litt. The woman gave the name of Antoinette Williams.

Marshfield Police said businesses in Milwaukee have also fallen victim. Investigators said Litt was arrested while allegedly trying to execute the same scam.