Family wracks up debt in war hero's name

PROSPECT, Conn. (WTNH) - A local war hero who served two tours in Afghanistan, then came home and became a victim of identity theft.

Captain Ed Rynkowsky, 28, was awarded two bronze stars for his service in Afghanistan, but says there's no better reward than coming home.

After five months of getting back to life in Prospect, someone broke into his home in April taking his many military awards, a valuable coin collection, his birth certificate, social security card and his bank account numbers.

"It was stress, as it was," said Rynkowsky.

Police say the thief stole $7,000 from his bank accounts, and opened credit cards using Rynkowsky's name. About $8,000 was wracked up in debt.

Two weeks ago, Connecticut State Police arrested Rynkowsky's uncle, Edward Jones,54, for the crime.

"It's kind family values,' said Rynkowsky.

The war vet said he suspected his Mom's brother right away since a neighbor's description of the suspect and a get-a-way car matched that of his uncle.

Jones faces a list of charges including burglary, criminal impersonation and 64 counts of illegal use of a credit card.

Rynkowsky said he just wants his awarded military medals and coins back because they are priceless. His uncle is being held on $20,000 bond, and is due in court on Oct. 12.