Chicago, Illinois, USA: Indian National Sentenced to 90 Months in US Prison for $2.2 Million Elderly Scam
Cases involving fraud targeting senior citizens have surged in recent years across the United States, as federal authorities step up efforts to dismantle cross-border schemes often tied to international criminal networks.
A federal judge in the United States has handed a 90-month prison sentence to an Indian citizen for his involvement in a large-scale imposter-fraud operation that victimised elderly residents in five Midwestern states, resulting in intended losses exceeding $2.2 million.
Ligneshkumar H. Patel, 38, admitted guilt to one count of conspiracy to commit wire and financial institution fraud, along with two counts of wire fraud. He was ordered by the court to repay over $2 million in restitution, according to the Department of Justice.
“Imposter scams often operate internationally, using US-based intermediaries to meet victims and take their money in person,” said US Attorney Steven D. Weinhoeft.
Prosecutors explained that Patel and his associates pretended to be law enforcement or federal officials to trick people into giving money, financial account access, or personal information. Victims were misled into handing over assets under the pretence of “protection.”
Court documents indicate that Patel visited the homes of at least 11 elderly victims across Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, Michigan, and Wisconsin, obtaining cash and gold totalling $2,231,216.99. Prosecutors stated that the conspiracy involved at least 85 more victims, with intended losses exceeding $6.9 million.
“This case underscores the severe repercussions for those who exploit older adults through sophisticated fraud operations,” said Matthew J. Scarpino, special agent in charge of HSI Chicago.
Fraud against seniors has seen a sharp increase in the US, with federal agencies intensifying efforts to combat scams that often span international borders. Several cases have involved individuals of Indian origin, reflecting growing cooperation between Indian and US authorities on cyber and financial crime investigations.
