US authorities say at least 26 women were allegedly defrauded through fake online identities, false investment opportunities and fabricated romantic relationships.
Federal authorities in the United States have arrested two men accused of running a sophisticated romance and investment fraud scheme in which one of them allegedly posed as a player for the San Francisco 49ers to deceive women.
According to US authorities, at least 26 women were allegedly defrauded of approximately $1.3 million through the scheme, which involved fake identities, social media accounts, fabricated investment opportunities and false claims of romantic relationships.
Arrests Made at Boise Airport
The US Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon said that 35-year-old Daejon Labrayae Love and 18-year-old Taylor Jamie Chan were arrested on August 24 at Boise Airport in Idaho.
Both men face charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. If convicted, they could face up to 20 years in prison.
However, the charges remain allegations, and the case will proceed through the US legal system.
Fake NFL Identity Used to Gain Trust
According to court documents, Love allegedly used dating apps and social media to present himself as an undrafted wide receiver associated with the San Francisco 49ers.
He reportedly used several aliases, including Jon Love, Avril Lyto Love and Jordan Love, while sharing photographs of himself wearing a 49ers jersey. Authorities also allege that he recorded a video appearing to show himself signing an NFL contract.
Federal prosecutors said the alleged scheme relied heavily on fictitious personas and the appearance of a luxurious lifestyle to gain the trust of potential victims.
Love’s social media accounts reportedly featured images of exotic cars, expensive watches and workout sessions while wearing 49ers gear. He allegedly spent more than $1,160 on custom helmets and also purchased fake prop money to strengthen the illusion of wealth and success.
Panthers vs. Cardinals 2026: Everything You Need to Know About Tonight’s NFL Hall of Fame Game
Romance Followed by Fake Investments
Authorities allege that Love convinced several women that they were involved in genuine romantic relationships with him before encouraging them to invest money in what prosecutors described as fictitious business ventures.
When some of the alleged victims did not have sufficient cash available, investigators said they were encouraged to take out personal loans.
Chan allegedly played the role of Love’s financial adviser and participated in FaceTime calls with victims. During these conversations, authorities claim that false information was presented to convince the women that their supposed investments were generating significant profits.
The FBI said the alleged victims were located in California, Oregon, Washington and Idaho.
FBI Believes More Victims May Exist
According to investigators, women who began asking too many questions or were no longer able to provide money were reportedly blocked or prevented from contacting Love.
Both the NFL and the San Francisco 49ers have stated that Love was never employed by either organisation.
The FBI believes there may be additional victims who have not yet been identified. Romance scams often exploit trust and emotional relationships to convince victims to send money or invest in fraudulent schemes.
The case highlights how social media profiles, fake luxury lifestyles and false professional identities can be used to build credibility online. US authorities are continuing their investigation and have urged anyone who believes they may have been affected by the alleged scheme to come forward.
