When you're as famous as Jessica Simpson, it can be hard to tell who your real friends are--especially when enterprising impostor types assume their identities.
New Jersey resident Courtney Handel, 23, was arrested Friday and charged with theft by deception after she amassed more than $12,000 in glamourous merchandise by posing as Simpson's assistant and best friend, CaCee Cobb.
Using Cobb's name, Handel contacted numerous companies by email and fax, gushing that Simpson was a big fan of their product lines. Basking in the glow of A-list recognition, most companies were quick to send out the goods under the assumption that they were for the Dukes of Hazzard star's personal use
One retailer tested Handel by quizzing her on Simpson's various movements and tour dates, but the public-relations intern had done her homework well and passed the test with flying colors.
Even so, her strategy fell prey to a weak spot--Handel had neglected to secure a separate address and had the loot shipped directly to her East Rutherford home.
Acting on a tip from the security department at Sony, Simpson's record label, police arrived at Handel's residence on Friday and discovered a treasure trove of lingerie, jewelry and designer clothing.
While authorities were still at the home, UPS pulled up with another slew of deliveries intended for the In This Skin singer.
"We turned to each other and said, 'If only all our cases could be this easy,' " Detective Sergeant Jeff Yannaconi told the New York Daily News.
Among the items collected by Handel were seven pairs of Frye boots, lingerie from Sweet Soul Designs, handbags from Ted Rossi, Fake Bake Tanning Products, PH Advantage cosmetics and Peter Roth Thomas skin-care products.
Before she was busted, the glamour scammer allegedly planned to offer the items for sale on eBay.
Handel was taken to the Bergen County jail on Friday. She posted $5,000 bail and was released over the weekend. Police were making arrangements to have the merchandise returned to the companies fooled by Handel's ruse.
the only time anyone would ever want to pose as that hanger on Cacee.
__________________ The world is moving so fast now that we start freaking long before our parents did because we don't ever stop to breathe anymore. the last kiss
Understandably, Cacee cob does not have to dress/look/act like her counterpart Jessica Simpson - but how come she's just so *blah* looking?! Not that one should aspire to look/act/dress like JS - I'm just always so surprised at how plain jane she seems.
That's too funny! Why didn't i think of that!? What an enterprising young lady.
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