‘Bonnie’ of high-living ID theft team back in court over probation
In this file photo released by the Philadelphia Police Department, shown is Jocelyn Kirsch, a student at Drexel University and Edward Anderton of Everett, Wash. Kirsch, 22, and Anderton, 25, were charged with identity theft, forgery, unlawful use of a computer, and a laundry list of other counts. (AP file Photo/Philadelphia Police Department, HO)
Jocelyn Kirsch, half of Philadelphia’s modern-day “Bonnie and Clyde” pair, was barely recognizable in federal court Monday as she made an initial appearance for allegedly violating the terms of her probation.
In 2007, Kirsch and her then-boyfriend, Edward Anderton, became tabloid superstars when they were arrested by city police for stealing the identities of their friends and neighbors, and using that information to forge checks and open bogus credit cards. The telegenic duo spent the stolen money on glamorous international trips and expensive clothes, and photos of their exploits were plastered across newspapers.
Kirsch and Anderton pleaded guilty in 2008 to fraud, conspiracy, money laundering and aggravated identity theft, and were sentenced to five and four years in prison, respectively.
After being released, Kirsch apparently returned to a life of crime, in violation of her federal probation. She was convicted of commercial burglary last year after admitting to shoplifting in California, according to law-enforcement officials.
In court Monday, Kirsch looked very different than the brunette bombshell whose image has been seen the world over. She stood quietly in the courtroom in a dark green jumpsuit and black glasses, with her curly brown hair pulled back.
A magistrate judge ordered Kirsch detained through April 29, the date of her violation-of-probation hearing.
A prosecutor and defense attorney both declined comment.
WHYY is your source for fact-based, in-depth journalism and information. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on financial support from readers like you. Please give today.
