American Greed: Scams, Scoundrels and Scandals Season 1 Episode 4 Meth Identity Thieves/The Wheaton Bandit

In American Greed: Scams, Scoundrels and Scandals season 1 episode 4, titled "Meth Identity Thieves/The Wheaton Bandit," viewers are introduced to two separate cases of financial fraud. The first case centers around a group of identity thieves who use methamphetamine to fuel their criminal activities. The second case follows a man known as the "Wheaton Bandit," who conducted a series of bank robberies in the Chicago suburbs.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the identity theft ring, which was based in Fresno, California. The group, led by a man named Terry Treleaven, would steal identities from mailboxes, credit reports, and even job applications. They would then use these identities to open credit accounts and purchase items, such as jewelry and electronics, which they would later sell for cash.

What set this group apart, however, was their heavy use of methamphetamine. According to experts interviewed for the episode, meth use can significantly alter a person's decision-making abilities, making them more likely to engage in risky or criminal behavior. Members of the identity theft ring would reportedly stay up for days at a time, fueled by their drug use, as they carried out their schemes.

The episode features interviews with several law enforcement officials who worked to bring down the identity theft ring. One investigator describes the group as "extremely sophisticated," with members using technology like encrypted messaging apps to communicate with one another. Eventually, however, the investigators were able to track down and arrest several members of the group, including Treleaven, who was sentenced to more than 12 years in prison.

The second half of the episode focuses on the "Wheaton Bandit," a man named John Dineen who carried out a series of bank robberies in the Chicago suburbs in the early 2000s. Over the course of two years, Dineen robbed 14 banks, stealing a total of more than $125,000. He became known as the "Wheaton Bandit" due to his distinctive appearance - he wore a fedora and sunglasses during his heists.

The episode features interviews with law enforcement officials who worked to bring Dineen to justice. They describe him as a "smart, calculating" criminal who carefully planned out his robberies and was able to evade police for a long time. Eventually, however, Dineen made a mistake - he left behind a fingerprint at the scene of one of his robberies. This led to his eventual capture and conviction.

Throughout the episode, viewers are given a detailed look at the methods used by both the identity theft ring and the "Wheaton Bandit." From the use of drugs to the careful planning of each crime, it's clear that these criminals were skilled and determined. However, thanks to the efforts of law enforcement, they were eventually brought to justice and made to pay for their crimes.

Overall, American Greed: Scams, Scoundrels and Scandals season 1 episode 4 is a fascinating look at two cases of financial fraud. By delving into the details of each crime, viewers are able to see just how intricate and complex these schemes can be. The episode is a reminder of the importance of vigilance when it comes to protecting our identities and our money.