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Quick Overview

• Erin West and a Quest to End Pig Butchering

• Miramar Woman Launders Millions from Senior Romanc …

  • The Heartbreaking Truth About Romance Scams

  • The Case of Cristine Petitfrere

  • The Emotional and Financial Impact

  • How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones

  • Resources for Victims

  • Join the Fight Against Scams

Erin West and a Quest to End Pig Butchering

If you haven’t heard the name Erin West yet, you will. She is a Deputy District Attorney in Santa Clara and a passionate, inspirational voice looking to put an end to pig-butchering.

This month, she’s appeared before Congress, on Good Morning America, 60 Minutes Australia, and was profiled in the Wall Street Journal. 

I have been volunteering for her group, Operation Shamrock, and it’s incredible to see the dedication amongst the hundreds worldwide looking to end scams. I’ll keep you posted on the official launch.

October 3rd is Romance Scam Prevention Day. Over the next two weeks, I’ll share a couple of stories to help spread awareness.

Stay safe out there,

Miramar Woman Launders Millions from Senior Romance Scam Victims

In another romance scam case, Cristine Petitfrere from Miramar, Florida, has pleaded guilty to laundering millions of dollars from victims. The financial toll and emotional damage inflicted by romance scams are profound, affecting seniors and their families across the nation.

The Heartbreaking Truth About Romance Scams

Romance scams are a form of fraud where perpetrators create fake online personas to gain the trust and affection of their victims. These scams often lead to significant financial losses and emotional devastation. According to the Federal Trade Commission, Americans lost a staggering $1.14 billion to romance scams in 2023 alone, and this number is underreported. Many victims are seniors in their late 60s and early 70s, who are targeted because of their trusting nature and perceived financial stability.

The Case of Cristine Petitfrere

Cristine Petitfrere, a 30-year-old resident of Miramar, Florida, admitted to conspiring to launder millions of dollars obtained through romance scams. According to court documents, Petitfrere, used bank accounts to receive scam proceeds, kept a portion as a fee, and sent the remainder to her co-conspirator abroad in Ghana, Africa. Over time, she laundered more than $2.7 million and earned hundreds of thousands of dollars in fees.

Petitfrere’s victims were seniors from Arizona, Indiana, and Virginia. These individuals believed they were in genuine relationships, only to be financially exploited by heartless fraudsters. Petitfrere is set to be sentenced in federal court on December 11, where she faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

The Emotional and Financial Impact

Romance scams not only drain victims' bank accounts but also leave lasting emotional scars. Victims often feel humiliated, betrayed, and isolated, making it difficult for them to seek help or report the crime.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian Boynton emphasized, “Romance scams cause not only significant losses but also profound emotional harm to countless individuals. This prosecution underscores the department’s efforts to dismantle the criminal networks that engage in these sophisticated financial schemes to exploit vulnerable Americans.”

How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones

It's crucial to stay vigilant and informed to protect oneself and loved ones from falling prey to such scams. Here are some tips:

1. Be Skeptical of Online Relationships: If someone you meet online professes love quickly, be cautious. Scammers often rush into declarations of love to manipulate your emotions.

2. Verify Their Identity: Use reverse image searches on profile pictures and look for inconsistencies in their stories. Scammers often use stolen photos and fabricated details.

3. Avoid Sending Money: Never send money or share financial information with someone you haven't met in person. Scammers will create urgent situations to pressure you into transferring funds.

4. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect you're being scammed, report it to the authorities immediately. Early reporting can increase the chances of recovering lost funds.

Resources for Victims

If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a romance scam, there is help available. The National Elder Fraud Hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, provides personalized support to seniors who have experienced financial fraud. Call 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311) for assistance.

Case managers at the hotline will assess the needs of the victim, identify relevant next steps, and connect callers with appropriate agencies. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET, with support available in English, Spanish, and other languages.

Join the Fight Against Scams

Reporting fraud is the first step in combating these crimes. By sharing your experience and reporting suspicious activity, you can help authorities identify and prosecute scammers. Visit the following websites for more information and resources:

• Elder Justice

• Report Fraud

• Consumer Protection Branch

As a community, we must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting our seniors from the devastating effects of romance scams. By staying informed, reporting suspicious activity, and supporting victims, we can help dismantle these criminal networks and secure the financial and emotional well-being of our loved ones.