Up to 18 years for identity-theft ring kingpin

Arthur Franklin, who wore wacky getups to help his identity-theft ring steal more than $700,000, was sentenced for nine to 18 years behind bars Monday.

The 47-year-old Harlem man pleaded guilty in October to grand larceny, conspiracy and other charges.

The Manhattan district attorney's office said Franklin would go to banks disguised as a character, such as a construction worker or doctor, while supervising his recruits' fraudulent withdrawals of money from more than 60 bank accounts.

The costumed crime ring also engaged in pickpocketing, according to prosecutors.