NOPD Hunts Alleged ID Thief In Evelina Street Utility Scam

The New Orleans Police Department is asking for the public’s help to track down a man investigators say is wanted in an identity theft case after a victim’s personal information was allegedly used to open a utility account. Detectives have identified the suspect as Jeffrey Michael Hunt and say the incident took place on the 700 block of Evelina Street on July 2, 2025. Fourth District detectives are asking anyone with information to call (504) 658-6040. The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, according to the New Orleans Police Department.

In a Facebook post, the New Orleans Police Department identified Hunt as a white male born May 31, 1978, and stated that he "will be charged" with computer fraud, identity theft, access device fraud and forgery after allegedly using a victim’s Social Security number to set up a fraudulent utility account. The post asks anyone with tips to call Fourth District detectives at the number listed above.

Allegations fit a wider local trend

Federal complaint data reviewed by Forbes indicates that identity theft reports in Louisiana rose by about 26% last year, with New Orleans among the cities seeing some of the sharpest jumps. Investigators and consumer protection specialists say thieves often use stolen Social Security numbers and account takeovers to open services or utility accounts, a pattern that lines up with the allegations in this case.

Legal consequences under state law

If prosecutors ultimately bring the charges described by police, each count would fall under specific Louisiana statutes that carry potential prison time and fines, depending on how much money is involved. Identity theft is defined in LA Rev. Stat. § 14:67.16, while computer fraud is addressed in LA Rev. Stat. § 14:73.5. Access device fraud is covered under LA Rev. Stat. § 14:70.4, and forgery penalties are likewise graded under state law.

Protecting yourself and next steps if you’re a victim

Anyone who suspects their information has been misused can create a recovery plan and file an official FTC Identity Theft Report at IdentityTheft.gov. The Louisiana Department of Revenue also offers guidance on tax related identity theft and ways to safeguard accounts. Common first moves include placing fraud alerts or credit freezes with credit bureaus, checking credit reports for unfamiliar accounts, and saving copies of any bills, notices or records tied to possible fraudulent activity.

How to tip investigators

Anyone who recognizes Jeffrey Michael Hunt or has information on his location is asked to contact Fourth District detectives at (504) 658-6040, as noted in the department’s post. Authorities caution the public not to approach or attempt to detain anyone they believe may be involved. Instead, call police and share any details, including videos, photos or records of suspicious account activity, that could assist the investigation.