Laconia husband and wife charged with identity theft and credit card fraud

A local couple was arrested yesterday on charges of conspiracy to commit identity fraud and fraudulent use of a credit card, both class A felonies, as well as falsifying physical evidence, a class B felony.

Barry C. Laughton, Jr., 23, and his wife Lisa I. Laughton, 36, both of 103 Blueberry Lane, Unit 18, were arrested after an investigation that began with a report of identity theft by a local resident on May 31. The victim told police that identification information was used to obtain a Citibank Mastercard, which was used to make purchases and pay bills. According to police, more than $3,000 was charged to the fraudulent card.

The card was allegedly used to purchase laptop computers, computer hardware and household goods at stores in Laconia, Gilford and Tilton. On June 28 police searched the Laughton's home where they recovered several items matching purchases charged to the card. Police allege that Barry Laughton disposed of two laptop computers, two cellular phones and a computer printer after he learned from his wife that police were investigating the use of the suspect credit card.

Police said that payments for cable television and cellular phone services were also charged to the card. Police obtained a search warrant to review both the cable and telephone accounts and found the Laughtons' bills were paid with the card.

Both Barry and Lisa Laughton were released on $15,000 personal recognizance bail pending their arraignment in Laconia District Court on August 23.

Barry Laughton was a candidate for the City Council from Ward 3 in 2005 and ran for a spot on the School Board last fall. He attracted only a few handful of votes each time.