Authorities have charged a man who pretended to be a San Francisco 49ers wide receiver with defrauding over two dozen women out of more than $1.3 million.
The Department of Justice reported that authorities arrested Daejon Labrayae Love, 35, and his alleged accomplice, Taylor Jamie Chan, 18, at a Boise, Idaho, airport. According to a federal complaint filed in Portland, Oregon, prosecutors charged the two men with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
“The scheme relied on Love’s creation of fictitious personas and display of a lavish lifestyle which Love presented to victims both in person and on social media websites,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a statement. “Love convinced many of the victims they were in sincere romantic relationships with Love, 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.”
A fake Instagram account made it look like he was a 49ers player
On Instagram, Love showcased himself as a wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers. He claimed he was not selected in the NFL Draft, but eventually made the team as a free agent.
The Los Angeles Times reports that in an Instagram Story titled “NFL Journey,” Love held a 49ers helmet while driving and said, “I’m on my way to get my mom. I know I get a lot of fans who want to know how football works or how I got involved in the league…. If you know me and see me in person I’ll explain. I chose SF because it was the right time. I was kind of already living in the Bay and it just worked out for me.”
Love romantically involved himself with many of the alleged victims, and he expressed his desire to build wealth and a future with them. Love promoted investment entities that didn’t exist and said they would yield enormous profits for both him and his victims.
Additionally, Love created fake bank and investment accounts and balances using phone applications, which he presented to victims in order to legitimize the scam. Chan also claimed to serve as Love’s investment advisor in online investment-related communications.
“Once victims had no more money to invest, or if they asked too many questions, Love blocked communication with them, but kept their money,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office continued. “Of the victims identified and interviewed, none reported receiving any proceeds, returns on their principle, or investment account information, after sending Love and Chan money. Financial records show Love and Chan received about $1.3 million from victim investors. 26 victims have been identified, the FBI believes there are many more victims.”