Credit card thief skips sentencing

LAFAYETTE, Ind (WLFI) - A Chicago man chose not to attend his sentencing on charges of forgery, theft and being a habitual offender. Tippecanoe County Prosecutor Pat Harrington said Levie Jackson waived his right to be present during his sentencing. A judge proceeded to sentence the 57-year-old to 45 years in prison.

Jackson was arrested earlier this year after he approached elderly people outside of a Lafayette shopping center saying he was a security guard offering coupons. He told victims he needed to see their I-D to prove they were over 65. He would steal their credit cards when they gave him their wallets.

Harrington said Jackson has 16 prior convictions. They include burglary, theft, and forgery. He said charges are pending against Jackson in three different Illinois counties.