MAN CLAIMS TO BE PRO FOOTBALL PLAYER; ALLEGEDLY STEALS MILLIONS IN SCAM

Federal authorities have arrested two men accused of running an elaborate romance and investment scam that allegedly defrauded 26 women out of approximately $1.3 million.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Oregon, 35-year-old Daejon Love and 18-year-old Taylor Jamie Chan were arrested Aug. 24 at the Boise, Idaho, airport. Both face federal charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud.

Investigators say Love met women through dating apps and created fake identities, including repeatedly claiming to be a San Francisco 49ers player or a wealthy real estate investor. Chan allegedly posed as Love’s financial adviser.

Authorities say Love convinced victims they were in genuine romantic relationships while promoting nonexistent investments promising huge returns. The men allegedly used fake banking and investment accounts to make the scheme appear legitimate and encouraged victims to send money or even take out personal loans.

Officials believe there may be many more victims. Both men remain in federal custody in Boise.