A Louisville pastor pleaded guilty Thursday to a string of theft and fraud charges after police say he and a friend plucked wallets from the shopping carts of older women, then used the stolen credit cards to buy gift cards. Virgil Mozee entered his plea in Jefferson County court on July 23, 2026, in a case that has shined an uncomfortable spotlight on scammers who target seniors in routine trips to local stores.
According to WLKY, Mozee pleaded guilty to multiple counts involving theft and fraudulent use of payment cards. The station reports prosecutors will ask the judge to schedule a sentencing date now that the plea has been entered. Court filings cited by the outlet identify a series of thefts in September 2025 as the basis for the charges.
Police arrested Mozee and Nathaniel Porter III in October 2025 after surveillance video allegedly showed the pair lifting wallets from the carts of women in their 70s and 80s, according to WAVE. Investigators told reporters the men would change outfits before heading to nearby stores, where they used the stolen cards to scoop up gift cards. Records reviewed by WAVE show Mozee has prior theft related convictions dating back to 2009, including a 2015 case that ended with probation.
Charges and next steps
As outlined by WLKY, Mozee admitted to counts that include theft by unlawful taking, fraudulent use of credit cards, engaging in organized crime and trafficking in financial information. His co-defendant, Nathaniel Porter III, has turned down a plea deal and is preparing to take his chances at trial, the station reported. Prosecutors said they plan to seek restitution for the victims as part of Mozee’s eventual sentence.
Police urge more victims to come forward
At least three older women have reported being defrauded, the oldest 81 years old, and losses reached into the thousands of dollars over a roughly two week stretch, according to WAVE. LMPD’s Third Division has asked anyone who believes they may have been targeted to call the tip line at 502-574-2135. Investigators pointed out that banks often reimburse fraudulent charges, which can tempt people to skip a police report, and urged potential victims to contact law enforcement even if their money was refunded. According to the Federal Trade Commission, consumers reported losing more than $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024. The Federal Trade Commission reports consumers 80 and older lost a median of $1,450 to fraud, while those in their seventies reported a median loss of $804.
The guilty plea closes one chapter in a months long investigation, but police say the case could widen if more shoppers step forward. Advocates for senior safety note the case is a blunt reminder to keep wallets secured and to stay alert in crowded aisles. Jefferson County court records will list upcoming hearings for both men as the legal process plays out.
