A New York man will go to prison after admitting to a large-scale identity theft plot that targeted liquor stores in several Pennsylvania counties.
Eugene Antwi, 26, of Brooklyn, was sentenced to 4 to 23 months in prison in Dauphin County, followed by two years’ probation, Attorney General Dave Sunday announced. He was also forced to pay back more than $66,000.
According to investigators, Antwi utilized stolen credit and debit card information, as well as fictitious identities, to place over 200 online orders for high-end booze. Authorities claim he later picked up the goods in person at state-run Fine Wine & Good Spirits establishments in 21 counties.
The majority of the activity took place in Philadelphia and nearby suburban counties, but officials claim the scam extended throughout the state.
The thefts took place between August 2023 and September 2024 and included costly brands, including Johnnie Walker Scotch and Don Julio tequila.
According to prosecutors, the amount of alcohol purchased was much above what would be deemed personal consumption, creating concerns that led to the inquiry.
The case was the result of a collaborative operation by the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and state police, with assistance from a statewide investigative grand jury.
Officials said Antwi’s activities harmed not only individual victims but also misled the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, which regulates alcohol sales in the state.
Because of the number of counties involved, authorities underlined the importance of cross-jurisdictional coordination.
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