By Joe Johnson
Athens-Clarke County police have arrested a Nevada man who they say was part of a multimillion dollar fraud ring that extended to multiple states.
Authorities say they began their investigation on the afternoon of June 7 after a business on Lexington Road reported that a man tried to "make a large purchase using a fraudulently obtained account number."
Officers questioned the man, who they say gave multiple false names until they finally identified him as 60-year-old Nevada resident Anthony Maurice Phillips.
According to investigators, Phillips is suspected of being connected with the theft of several million dollars in merchandise across the country.
While investigating Phillips, authorities say they recovered $1,800 in stolen merchandise and fentanyl.
Phillips is now charged with theft by receiving stolen property, giving false information to law enforcement, and possession of fentanyl.
He also has warrants for his arrest in other jurisdictions.
The investigation is ongoing, and police asked for anyone with pertinent information to call them at 762-400-7375.
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