Thread: CBS 11 News Uncovers Fake I.D. Operation in Dallas

Nov 26, 2008 10:00 pm US/Central

CBS 11 News Uncovers Fake I.D. Operation In Dallas
Reporting
Jay Gormley DALLAS (CBS 11 News) ―

It starts with two simple words - "El Tio" or "The Uncle" in English. It's the password that opens the door to a new identity.

After receiving a tip from a viewer, CBS 11 News went undercover in Northwest Dallas, along Harry Hines Boulevard to document an elaborate fake ID ring.

We sent a CBS 11 employee, undercover, to the location. He asked about getting a Texas ID card and was directed to "El Tio." The employee was then taken across the street to a boot store to have his picture taken. He handed over $20 as an up front payment.

We showed the hidden camera footage to Trooper Lonny Haschel, with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the same agency that issues Texas drivers' licenses and ID cards. Haschel said, "It's unfortunate that folks feel they have to go this route. Anytime anyone can obtain a driver's license or ID card without any documentation, that's definitely an issue."

Our undercover employee never provided any documentation to prove his identity. After leaving the $20 upfront payment, he was told to come back with a final payment of $80. An hour later, he returned and was handed a brand new Texas identification card.

Trooper Haschel wondered "What kind of numbers are they using? Are they using your date of birth or your driver's license number or did they just make one up?"

Five days after our first undercover buy, we sent a second buyer to the supermarket. He was joined by our first buyer who posed as his friend. Once again, the deal began with the words "El Tio," followed by money up front and then a photo. An hour later, our second buyer had a fake ID. This time, he purchased a Texas driver's license which cost a little more at a $120.

After seeing the hidden camera video of the second undercover purchase, Trooper Haschel remarked, "What we need to do, is take a look at this case a little further."

CBS 11 decided to do just that. We set up a third buy with yet another undercover employee. The routine was similar and the outcome was once again successful.

Buying a fake card is one thing, but can the ID's pass as real? Take a look at these two ID's. One is a real state driver's license and one is fake. Can you tell the difference? Finish reading the article and find at the answer at the bottom.

The fake cards include the state capitol, the Texas flag, a signature and even a hologram which is the same details found on a legitimate ID. The Department of Public Safety says it's impressed with the quality, which raises concerns about illegal immigration, underage drinking, and even terrorism.

CBS 11 News learned that several people are apparently tied to the illegal operation and there's no telling how long it's been up and running.

As we left Trooper Haschel he had a reminder for anyone participating in the making or use of fake ID's, "If you get into a felony situation, you're going to be doing jail time."

Okay, ready? Of the two ID's featured above, the one on top is fake. The ID for Esequiel Ayala is counterfeit.

(Go to source to view the two reproductions of Texas Driver's Licenses)
http://cbs11tv.com/investigators/Compar ... 74748.html

Do we know if anyone has been arrested?

After seeing the hidden camera video of the second undercover purchase, Trooper Haschel remarked, "What we need to do, is take a look at this case a little further."


Well doesn't he sound enthusiastic??? This sounds like no big deal. I think the TV station didn't necessarily take this to the right person and if they did, this shows why we're in such a bad state...

The Video.

http://cbs11tv.com/video/?id=35124@ktvt.dayport.com

Why didn't the TV station now take it to Gov. Rick Perry and the State Attorney General.

Those having questions and/or reservations about the actions of CBS 11/TXA21 News in this matter can contact them directly at:
http://cbs11tv.com/contact

Yep, what's the old liberal argument? Isn't it that these people are not criminals, they are just here to make a living? It think this falls under criminal activity and who do these OLB supporters think they are selling fake identification to? Americans?