Dubuque, Iowa – March 13, 2026 — A 22-year-old Dubuque resident was arrested Friday afternoon on two felony charges related to financial fraud and organized unlawful activity, according to booking information from local authorities.

Samantha Caprice Washington, identified as female/22, was taken into custody at approximately 3:30 p.m. at 720 Central Ave — the address of the Dubuque Law Enforcement Center (DLEC) — on the following charges:

1.  Theft in the 2nd Degree – Credit Card/Automated Teller Machine Fraud (Felony)

2.  Ongoing Criminal Conduct – Unlawful Activity (Felony)

The arresting officer is listed as Lawler, B.M. The case is associated with arrest reference AR 2025002375.

Understanding the Charges

Under Iowa Code, Theft in the 2nd Degree is classified as a Class D felony when the value of the stolen property or services exceeds $1,000 but is less than $10,000, or in specific circumstances involving fraud. The subcategory here — “Credit Card/Automated Teller Machine Fraud” — typically involves unauthorized use of a credit card, debit card, or ATM to obtain money, goods, or services. This can include scenarios such as:

•  Using a stolen or counterfeit card.

•  Fraudulently obtaining card information (e.g., skimming or phishing).

•  Unauthorized transactions at ATMs or point-of-sale terminals.

Penalties for a Class D felony in Iowa can include up to five years in prison and fines up to $9,375, though first-time offenders may receive probation, deferred judgments, or shorter sentences depending on circumstances.

The second charge, Ongoing Criminal Conduct, falls under Iowa’s Organized Crime statute (Iowa Code Chapter 706B). This felony targets individuals engaged in a “pattern of criminal activity” or participating in an enterprise involving multiple unlawful acts. It requires evidence of at least two related predicate offenses (such as theft, fraud, or other financial crimes) committed with intent to promote or facilitate the enterprise. Convictions carry enhanced penalties, often elevating to a Class C felony (up to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to $18,750) or higher, depending on the scope and harm involved.

An Arrest is not admission of guilt and all subjects are innocent until proven guilty in o court of law.