The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office is charging a New York City man with financial card fraud and identity theft following an investigation into unauthorized purchases made with a victim’s card.

Zhiyuan Zhao, 41, of Flushing, N.Y. is charged with one count of felony financial card fraud, one count of felony identity theft and four counts of misdemeanor financial card fraud. The sheriff’s office says it began its investigation after receiving a report of unauthorized card usage. Investigators then determined the card had been used in tap-to-pay transactions at multiple stores in Wake County. The sheriff’s office says it used transaction records and camera footage from those locations to help identify Zhao as a suspect.

Warrants have been issued for Zhao’s arrest, but at the time of publication he is not in custody. A court date has not yet been set.

 

Featured image via Chapel Hill Media Group/Henry Taylor

Chapelboro.com does not charge subscription fees, and you can directly support our efforts in local journalism here. Want more of what you see on Chapelboro? Let us bring free local news and community information to you by signing up for our newsletter.

Related Stories
‹
Longtime Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson Sworn in as District 3 Commissioner
Longtime Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson recently stepped into a new role as a county commissioner for District 3.
The Morning News: Expanding the Arts, Chatham Transit, Michael Lombardi
In today's news: the Eno Arts Mill is set to reopen, UNC moves to expand the Ackland Art Museum, and Michael Lombardi speaks out.
Steve Maynor Sworn In as New Chatham County Sheriff; Will Run for Full Term in November
Steve Maynor was officially sworn in as the new Chatham County Sheriff during a ceremony in Pittsboro Thursday, replacing Mike Roberson.
Pittsboro Man Arrested For Domestic Violence Against Wife and Son, Killing Dog
The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Pittsboro man after a domestic violence incident led to an armed standoff with police.
The Morning News: 'Hello, Dolly!' at PlayMakers, Animal Cruelty Charges in Siler City
In today's news: PlayMakers Repertory Company's Summer Youth Conservatory celebrates its 20th year with the musical "Hello, Dolly!"
More Than 20 Animals Up For Adoption Following Chatham County Animal Cruelty Investigation
Twenty-two chickens, two turkeys, a rabbit and a dog are available for adoption after they were seized during an animal cruelty investigation.
Cocker Spaniel 'Mr. Pickles' Reunites With Vets, Officers Who Saved Him From Neglect
Mr. Pickles reunited with the people responsible for saving him from a severe case of neglect which led to dangerous matting.
Chatham County Sheriff's Office: First Drowning of 2026 Reported at Jordan Lake, Victim Lacking Life Jacket
A Chapel Hill resident drowned in Jordan Lake on Monday while trying to retrieve a drifting boat, according to Chatham County authorities.
Nonprofit, Sheriff's Office Highlight Recovery of Neglected Dog Found in Chatham County Home
A neglected dog discovered in Chatham County is on the path to recovery after he was rescued by the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office in early May.
Chatham County Sheriff: Pittsboro Man Facing Multiple Counts of Felony Identity Theft, Fraud
The Chatham County Sheriff’s Office has obtained warrants charging a Pittsboro man with multiple counts of identity theft and fraud. Aaron Luis Perez, 34, of 534 Deer Run is charged with 21 counts of felony financial card fraud, 20 counts of felony identity theft and two counts of misdemeanor possession of stolen goods. The sheriff’s […]
›