Man arrested for $1.3 million in fraudulent returns to Walmart

YUMA, Ariz. -- (KNXV) -- A man accused of committing fraudulent returns at more than 1,000 Walmarts across the United States was arrested in Yuma Wednesday afternoon.

According to Yuma police officials, 23-year-old Thomas Frudaker was apprehended and taken into custody after officers responded to reports of a fraudulent transaction at the Walmart near 24th Street and Avenue B.

Police say Frudaker had returned to Walmart to return a computer he had purchased earlier. Detectives believe Frudaker removed parts from the computer before making the return.

During their investigation, officers discovered that Frudaker had committed a similar return earlier in the day at the Walmart near 32nd Street and Avenue 8 E, and at more than 1000 Walmarts across the United States over an 18-month period.

These fraudulent returns have resulted in a loss of $1.3 million to Walmart, officials said.

Frudaker was arrested and is facing multiple charges including fraudulent schemes, criminal damage, and theft.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Yuma Police Department.