Panorama City, CA asked in Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Identity Theft for California

Q: Who should be held responsible for mail and identity thefting?

First time ever having my own place through section 8 the apartment was nice but I never paid attention to the important things like mailbox,doorbell, heater air vents,the ceilings I was just beyond happy that I didn't have to sleep different houses apart from my kids. Well the mailbox was broken and my landlord knew he didn't fix it and I put my own lock on it and he made me take it off. My identity has been being used since 2009 the year I moved in ,the neighbors he moved next door lived down the street they have been using my identity and I confronted the lady who didn't say she wasn't but said she found my information on a insurance site she than blamed other people.this lady told me so much and I basically think the landlord who has my house key was coming into my home when I was working. She has a daughter who doesn't like me so this is why they did this since I physically fought her daughter over my kids dad they got me back by using my identity taking my money.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: Under California law, both mail theft and identity theft are serious crimes. Responsibility for these crimes lies primarily with the individuals who committed them. If you suspect your neighbors are using your identity, they can be held criminally liable for identity theft.

Additionally, your landlord may bear some responsibility if they failed to provide a secure mailbox or took actions that facilitated the theft, such as not fixing the mailbox or requiring you to remove your own lock. You can hold the landlord accountable by reporting the issue to your local housing authority or taking legal action for negligence.

To address these concerns, it is crucial to report identity theft to the police and the Federal Trade Commission. Document all interactions and evidence, such as the neighbor's admission and the landlord's actions. Seeking legal advice from a professional can also help you understand your rights and options.

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