Police arrested a 26-year-old man on Wednesday morning for allegedly stealing $40,000 from members of a local fitness club.
Christopher Polley was charged with two counts of identity theft, possession of a controlled substance, possession of over ten personal profiles and theft-related charges.
Polley formerly worked at the Wave House Athletic Club in Mission Beach, where he is accused of stealing hundreds of membership applications and contracts.
At least 20 victims have been confirmed, and police say there are potentially many more. Most of the victims have lived, or currently live, in the Pacific Beach area of San Diego.
Wave House issued the following statement on Thurday:
"We are deeply disappointed by this individual’s acts that victimized both Wave House Athletic Club and its valued members, and we are working with the San Diego Police Department to hold him criminally responsible. We have also already taken additional steps to protect against future membership agreement thefts."
Police said Polley used the personal information on the applications to open up “Bill Me Later” credit accounts that were then used to make purchases online. The total loss is approximately $40,000 and will likely increase as more victims are identified.
Polley pleaded not guilty in court on Thursday afternoon. His bail has been set to $400,000.
Individuals who feel their personal identification has been compromised can call the San Diego Police Department Economic Crimes Unit at 619-446-1031.
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