BOSTON – A computer hacker who was a force behind one of the largest cases of credit card theft in US history says he has a developmental disorder and is asking for a reduced sentence.

Albert Gonzalez, of Miami, admitted invading the computer systems of such retailers as TJX Cos., BJ’s Wholesale Club and Sports Authority. Federal authorities say tens of millions of credit and debit card numbers were stolen.

His lawyers have submitted a report from a psychiatrist who concluded his behaviour was consistent with Asperger’s syndrome. That’s a form of autism.

Gonzalez was scheduled to be sentenced on Monday. The hearing has been postponed indefinitely so prosecutors can consider the psychiatrist report.

His lawyers are asking for a sentence at the lower end of the 15 to 25 years in his plea agreement.

- AP