Burlington Store Owner Accused Of Stealing Mother's Identity

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By Richard Pratt

Story Created: Sep 3, 2010 at 10:54 AM CST

Story Updated: Sep 3, 2010 at 12:10 PM CST

BURLINGTON (AP) -- Burlington police have arrested a local business owner, alleging she used her mother's Social Security number for her own gain.

Kathleen Sue Geren was charged Wednesday in an initial police complaint with one count of identity theft. Officials said she was released on bail.

Geren, 57, owns All Smiles Unique, a downtown Burlington store.

Police said late last month, a Keokuk woman identifying herself as Geren's mother told investigators someone had used her Social Security number to get utilities at 301 S. Fifth St., which is Geren's listed address.

The Keokuk woman reportedly told investigators she has not lived in Burlington and has not given anyone permission to use her Social Security number.

Police determined Geren used the woman's number to have utilities installed in her Burlington home.

If convicted on the charge, Geren faces up to two years in prison.

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