Former Marine faces charges of identity theft

Court records say he used other Marines' names for purchases.

By KEVIN GRAHAM, Times Staff Writer
Published October 11, 2007

TAMPA - A former Marine lance corporal has been indicted on charges he stole the identities of other Marines.

Steven Lee Fickey, 29, used the names of former and current Marines to purchase a flat-screen television, portable DVD player, filet mignon and a camcorder, among other items, according to court records.

An FBI agent says in court documents that Fickey used online accounts with the Army and Air Force Exchange Services, which sells goods to members of the armed forces, to buy the items and have them sent to his home. FBI agents say Fickey made the purchases throughout most of 2005.

When investigators questioned Fickey about the items, he said he did not order them. He said they just keep getting delivered by the UPS man, who refused to take them back.

According to court papers, Fickey would wear his uniform around Park Del Mar apartments in Tampa, where he lived, and would carry his ceremonial sword, apparently practicing parade drills. He has identified himself as a captain in the Marines.

A grand jury indictment with formal charges was handed up on Tuesday, but court records show that a federal complaint was filed against Fickey in November 2006.

Fickey served 18 months in the Marines and was discharged in November 2000.

Fickey tried to commit suicide earlier this year, according to court documents. He was committed to Sunshine Manor Assisted Living facility in Plant City.

In April, a judge found Fickey competent to have criminal charges brought against him and he was released on bail. He remains out of jail.

Kevin Graham can be reached at 813 226-3433or kgraham@sptimes.com.

[Last modified October 11, 2007, 01:15:08]