Federal authorities have arrested two men in Idaho accused of running a $1.3m romance and investment scam, in which one suspect allegedly posed as a San Francisco 49ers player to defraud more than two dozen women across four states.
The FBI arrested Daejon Love, 35, and Taylor Jamie Chan, 18, on 24 August in Boise, Idaho. They face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud, according to the US attorney’s office for the District of Oregon. Both remain in federal custody in Boise.
Scheme spanned four years and multiple states
The alleged scheme began in February 2022 and continued until the arrests on 24 August, spanning more than four years. Authorities say Love created fictitious personas to meet women on dating apps, presenting himself as a player for the San Francisco 49ers. To support the claim, he posted photos on social media wearing official team gear and posing with luxury vehicles.
The pair allegedly created fictitious investment opportunities to defraud 26 victims in California, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon. The FBI believes there may be many more victims who have not yet come forward.
Fake investments and fabricated romance
According to the US attorney’s office, Love convinced many victims they were in sincere romantic relationships, that he was a sophisticated investor, and that Chan was his investment adviser who helped Love grow a fortune worth tens of millions of dollars. Love told victims he wanted to build wealth and a future together, and advertised nonexistent investment vehicles that he claimed would generate massive returns for both him and the victims.
None of the alleged victims interviewed said they received any return on their investments or repayments for loans made to Love and Chan, the US attorney’s office said.
Victims blocked after funds ran out
The US attorney’s office said Love would block communications with the women after they ran out of funds to invest or asked too many questions. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging potential victims to come forward.
