DeKalb County Investigation Uncovers Forgery Operation: Undocumented Suspect Charged with ID Trafficking

A 58-year-old man faces charges after a months-long investigation in Fort Payne unveiled a forgery operation with false IDs, firearms, and cash.

TWLN Staff Report | The Weekly Ledger News | Area News

FORT PAYNE, Ala. — A suspected forgery and identity theft operation has been dismantled following an investigation conducted by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Drugs and Major Crimes Unit, authorities announced.

Investigators said the case stemmed from reports of an alleged forgery operation being run out of a residence on Mims Street in Fort Payne. Following the investigation, agents conducted a traffic stop related to the case on Thursday, January 29, at IDA in Fort Payne.

During the traffic stop, authorities identified the primary suspect as 58-year-old Javier Ferrer-Huerta of Veracruz, Mexico. Investigators reported that evidence connected to the alleged operation was recovered from the suspect’s vehicle.

Javier Ferrer-Huerta, 58 of Veracruz, Mexico. (Photo from DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office)

Later that same evening, deputies executed a search warrant at the Mims Street residence. During the search, authorities said they seized multiple fraudulent documents, materials used to create counterfeit identification cards, three firearms, and a large amount of U.S. currency.

Ferrer-Huerta was charged with Trafficking in Stolen Identities. Officials also notified the United States Department of Homeland Security after determining the suspect was in the country illegally.

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, emphasized the seriousness of identity theft crimes, stating that such offenses can result in long-term financial and personal harm to victims. He added that his office remains committed to protecting the community and holding those responsible accountable.

Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be forthcoming.

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