A 19-year-old Palm Coast woman, employed as a receptionist at a local nail salon, has been arrested for allegedly stealing a customer’s credit card and racking up more than $500 in unauthorized purchases, following a tip she provided herself through the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) social media channels.
The incident unfolded after a victim reported fraudulent activity on August 9 at the FCSO District 2 Office. She explained that she had inadvertently left her credit card at Palm Nails three days prior. Upon reviewing her statements, she discovered 10 suspicious transactions from August 6 to 9, including buys at various stores and eateries around Palm Coast.
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FCSO detectives in the General Assignment Unit reviewed surveillance videos from the implicated locations, pinpointing a suspect described as a white woman with long dark hair, dressed in a white camouflage jacket. Lacking additional leads, the Public Information Office shared a “attempt-to-identify” post on FCSO’s social media on September 23, appealing for public tips.
Hours later, a woman contacted the Flagler County Emergency Communications Center, claiming to be the person in the photo and requesting to speak with investigators. Detectives arranged a meeting at District 2, where the individual was identified as Brynn Gifford. During questioning, Gifford first denied involvement but changed her story after being shown clear footage, including one clip from Walmart where the suspect used the card for items like notebooks and pens. She even revealed similar items in her backpack during the interview.
Further probing revealed Gifford’s role at Palm Nails during the theft timeframe. On October 15, detectives secured an arrest warrant charging her with fraudulent use of personal identification from a victim aged 60 or older, multiple instances of credit card fraud within six months, and petit theft—all felonies.
“This case is a great example of the power of social media and how it can help law enforcement,” Sheriff Rick Staly remarked. “Less than a day after we posted the suspect’s photo looking for more information, she came forward to speak to our detectives. Of course, her bad decision landed her in jail on multiple felony charges, but at least she ultimately did the right thing, because our detectives would’ve caught her sooner or later.”
With assistance from the FCSO Fugitive Unit, Gifford was apprehended on October 16 in Daytona Beach by local police and booked into the Volusia County Correctional Facility. She posted a $4,000 bond and was released shortly after.
The case underscores the role of community involvement and digital tools in modern policing, while serving as a reminder for residents to safeguard personal financial information during everyday errands like salon visits. FCSO encourages anyone with related concerns to reach out to their hotline at 386-313-4911. The investigation is complete, and Gifford faces upcoming court proceedings.