Man Arrested in Elder Fraud Scheme Targeting 81-Year-Old Woman in Florida
Lithia, FL – March 5, 2026 – A 40-year-old man has been arrested by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) in connection with a fraud scheme targeting an 81-year-old woman. The incident occurred in Lithia, Florida, on February 23 and 24, 2026.
Details of the Scam
According to the HCSO, the scammers initially gained remote access to the victim’s computer through a malicious email. They then falsely informed her that $50,000 had been accidentally deposited into her bank account. The victim was subsequently convinced to withdraw $24,000 and hand the money over to a courier.
After receiving the initial funds, the courier provided a fraudulent receipt and requested an additional payment of $25,000 the following day. Detectives intervened, providing the victim with $25,000 in simulated currency for the scheduled pickup.
Arrest and Charges
Min Chen, a 40-year-old man, arrived at the victim’s home to collect the $25,000. He was apprehended by detectives at a nearby plaza after being observed placing the simulated currency on the vehicle’s center console. Chen is a Canadian citizen originally from China.
Chen has been charged with:
- Organized Fraud of a Person 65 Years of Age or Older ($20,000 to $50,000)
- Theft from Persons 65 Years of Age or Older ($10,000 to $50,000)
- Unlawful Use of Two-Way Communications Device
Sheriff’s Statement and Ongoing Investigation
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to protecting our senior citizens from those who seek to exploit them,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. The Sheriff’s Office encourages families to discuss common scam tactics with elderly loved ones and to report any suspicious activity immediately.
The investigation remains ongoing, with any updates to be provided by the HCSO Public Affairs Office.