In March 2024, Detectives assigned to the Statewide Organized Crime Investigative Task Force (SOCITF) received a complaint from Asurion Insurance Services regarding an organized group running a scheme to obtain new Apple iPhones through fraudulent insurance claims. This case was investigated in conjunction with the New Haven Police Department, who received a similar complaint of the same nature.
The investigation identified Esmaylin Delacruz (DOB 09/14/87), of Milford, as a key suspect. A search warrant was executed at Delacruz's residence in November of 2024, which revealed multiple articles of evidence. The evidence seized during the execution of this search warrant included multiple Apple iPhones which were positively identified to have been obtained through fraudulent insurance claims. A review of the evidence seized directly linked Delacruz to at least $50,000 in value from fraudulent iPhone insurance claims.
Furthermore, the investigation determined that Delacruz employs mules to open accounts through different wireless carriers and file fraudulent claims for Delacruz to later receive replacement iPhones. An arrest warrant for Delacruz was subsequently submitted and approved through the Judicial District of Ansonia-Milford.
On Thursday, 01/30/25 at approximately 7:38 PM, Delacruz was located and arrested on the strength of an active arrest warrant by Detectives from the State Police SOCITF, assisted by personnel from Milford PD and New Haven PD.
Delacruz was transported to Troop G- Bridgeport, where he was processed on the following charges pursuant to the arrest warrant:
CGS 53a-48/53a-122; Conspiracy To Commit Larceny 1st Degree
CGS 53a-122; Larceny 1st Degree
CGS 53a-215; Insurance Fraud
Delacruz was held on a $75,000 court set bond and is scheduled to appear at Milford Superior Court on 01/31/25. Please see the attached arrest warrant and criminal information summary; this remains an active and ongoing investigation.
