Jiaci Liu, a Chinese national, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for his involvement in a fraud scheme that targeted elderly Americans. The sentencing took place in San Diego federal court and follows an additional three months Liu had already served in state custody prior to the federal charges.
Liu was initially arrested in February 2024 by the San Diego District Attorney’s Office and later transferred to federal custody in May 2024. Federal prosecution was pursued because the offenses involved victims across state lines.
According to documents filed with the court, the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force became aware of the scheme after a 63-year-old Poway resident reported suspicious activity to local authorities. The scam began when a pop-up appeared on the victim’s computer warning of a possible virus and instructing him to call a phone number. After calling, he was connected with several individuals posing as technical support staff and bank representatives who convinced him that his bank account had been compromised.
The victim withdrew $28,000 from his bank following instructions from those posing as officials. He was told someone from the U.S. Marshals Service would collect the money at his home. Growing suspicious, he contacted law enforcement, who advised him to notify them if anyone arrived for pickup.
Liu arrived at the victim’s residence attempting to retrieve the cash but was apprehended by police outside the home. A search of Liu’s cellphone revealed evidence that during one week in June 2023, he traveled through Southern California and Arizona collecting more than $202,000 from elderly victims aged between their mid-70s and 83 years old.
Prosecutors noted that many victims lost significant amounts of money saved over their lifetimes for retirement, with some suffering serious financial hardship as a result.
U.S. District Judge Jinsook Ohta stated during sentencing that “the scheme involved ‘sophisticated means’ and caused substantial financial hardship to the elderly victims.” She also pointed out concerns about physical safety due to in-person cash pickups from seniors.
“Scamming the elderly is a reprehensible crime that robs individuals of their hard-earned savings and the dignity they deserve in their golden years,” said U.S. Attorney Adam Gordon. “There’s a cruelty in being willing to con your way to a victim’s door, look your victim in the eye, and physically take their life savings from them. This office will not tolerate deceitful and cruel criminals exploiting seniors.”
“Thanks to the courage of one potential victim alerting law enforcement, today’s sentencing ensures that Liu will be held accountable for his actions in a multinational tech support scam,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark Dargis of the FBI’s San Diego Field Office. “This case demonstrates the effectiveness of the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force through its collaborative partnerships in protecting our most vulnerable communities. The FBI is proud to play a role in that mission.”
The investigation involved multiple agencies including members of the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force: U.S. Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, Carlsbad Police Department, San Diego Police Department, and California Highway Patrol.
Those age 60 or older who have experienced financial fraud can seek assistance via resources such as the National Elder Fraud Hotline or report incidents online through the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Mokhtari prosecuted this case.
