Two facing identity theft charges in Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs police say a traffic stop led them to arrest two people on suspicion of identity theft.

It happened around 5 p.m. Tuesday in the area of East Bijou Street and North Circle Drive.

Police say they stopped a vehicle and found several personal items that didn’t belong to the female driver or male passenger.

The investigation later revealed the two people had used the personal financial information of others to fraudulently make purchases at several stores in the Colorado Springs area, according to police.

Police say there were at least five victims in Colorado Springs and El Paso County, but there are likely more. Most were able to get their property back the same day it was stolen.

Officers arrested 28-year-old Cristy Hood and 27-year-old Geoffrey Chinnow. They’re facing charges of identity theft and 1st-degree criminal trespass.

Police say this case should serve as a reminder to never leave valuables in an unattended vehicle in a public area.