Cab driver charged in card scam fails to show up in court

CHICAGO (WLS) -- A cab driver charged in an elaborate scheme involving debit and credit cards failed to show up in court on Thursday. He was formally indicted on 15 counts of felony identity theft in a scam that was first uncovered by the ABC7 I-Team.

Prosecutors said Omar Asemgar, 51, would take the victim's credit card for payment, and after charging them for their ride, give the victim a different but similar looking credit card in return.

Asemgar allegedly used the stolen cards to make fraudulent purchases, and was able to continue the scam by recycling stolen credit cards to new, unsuspecting victims.

If he doesn't show up for his next court appearance a week from Friday, a warrant will be issued for his arrest.