Manatee County Detectives Dismantle $3.5 Million Elder Fraud Network Targeting Seniors Across Florida
Manatee County Sheriff’s Office detectives have dismantled a sophisticated phone and online fraud network that targeted elderly victims across Florida, leading to multiple arrests and exposing a criminal operation responsible for stealing more than $3.5 million from at least 40 victims.
The investigation began in July 2025 after a Manatee County resident reported being contacted by a scammer posing as a representative of the Federal Trade Commission. Rather than falling victim, the resident became suspicious and photographed the woman who arrived at the home to collect cash, along with her vehicle, before notifying authorities.
Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office Economic Crimes Unit identified the woman as 40-year-old Xin Liu, a Chinese national who investigators say traveled throughout the United States acting as a courier for the fraud ring. According to investigators, Liu admitted to collecting more than $95,000 from scam victims while using an alias and impersonating a federal investigator. She was charged in Manatee County with a scheme to defraud and later sentenced in federal court to 27 months in prison. She was also ordered to pay restitution.
Investigators said the criminal organization relied on a variety of scams to pressure victims into sending money. Victims were told they had missed jury duty, received fake iCloud payment notifications, or were contacted by individuals posing as federal officials. The scammers used fear and urgency to convince victims to hand over cash, gold or cryptocurrency.
As the investigation expanded, detectives uncovered dozens of additional victims across the state, including a 79-year-old Manatee County woman who had already lost more than $200,000 in a cryptocurrency scam. While detectives were interviewing her, the scammers called again to arrange another $30,000 cash pickup, allowing investigators to conduct an undercover operation.
The sting led to the arrest of a 52-year-old Chinese national who authorities say served as another courier for the organization. The suspect faces charges of scheme to defraud and conspiracy to commit a first-degree felony. A third suspect, a 56-year-old Chinese national, was later arrested on identical charges involving another elderly victim.
During a subsequent search of a residence connected to the suspects, investigators discovered thousands of suspected counterfeit items, prompting a separate federal investigation.
Sheriff Rick Wells said the suspects deliberately preyed on elderly residents, often stealing their life savings. He praised the work of detectives and law enforcement partners for preventing additional victims from being defrauded while identifying those responsible.
Authorities urge residents to remain cautious when receiving unexpected phone calls, emails or text messages demanding immediate payment. Investigators recommend hanging up, avoiding clicking suspicious links, independently verifying claims with family members or law enforcement, and never providing money or financial information under pressure.
The investigation remains active, with several state and federal cases still pending.
